When I first started painting, I didn’t yet know how deeply I’d fall in love with fluid, flowing mediums. It was curiosity at first—an experiment with something new—but the moment I saw how acrylic inks moved across the surface, how they pooled and dried with unexpected softness and edges that felt organic and alive, I was hooked.

There’s something meditative about the way they behave. You can’t fully control them—and that’s the beauty. Acrylic inks have this unique quality: they’re vibrant but transparent, fast-drying yet full of movement. They let me build up layers slowly, allowing light and color to shine through in a way that feels like breathing space on the canvas. They fit my process perfectly, especially as I’ve moved deeper into creating calm, minimal compositions inspired by nature.

Over time, I’ve built a rhythm around working with them. I always stretch my own canvases—something I started doing years ago. It gives me a more intimate connection with the work from the very beginning. There’s something grounding about starting with raw materials and building the surface yourself. You learn how the fabric behaves, how the gesso sits, and where the paint will sink or resist. That awareness makes a difference when working with something as fluid and sensitive as ink.

Through years of trial and error, I’ve gathered tools that have become like trusted companions in the studio. Brushes that hold just the right amount of liquid, pipettes for delicate drips, masking tools for clean edges, and of course, my favorite brands of inks—each with its own character and quirks. If you’re just getting started or looking to expand your collection, I’ve actually put together a free PDF guide with all my go-to materials. It includes the brands I love most and some notes on how I use each one.