The Versatility of Acrylics

Acrylic painting by Sydney-based artist Tetiana Koldunenko depicting a seagull soaring freely through a pale blue sky, its wings rendered with an almost transparent, ethereal quality. Inspired by Jonathan Livingston Seagull, the artwork conveys lightness, freedom, and the quiet pursuit of inner growth.

The fast-drying nature of acrylic paints brings an entirely different kind of energy to my practice. They provide immediate results and encourage a spontaneous, expressive approach that keeps the process fresh and dynamic.

Black Butterfly with pink spots on silver textured background, made in acrylic and texture paste

Orange Butterfly close up look on silver textured background, made in acrylic and texture paste

What I love most about acrylics is their incredible versatility. They can be used on canvas, paper, or wood — opening endless creative possibilities for experimentation. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate many of their qualities:

Versatility – suitable for almost any surface.
Quick drying – perfect for working in layers or capturing fast-changing ideas.
Water-soluble – easy to clean and manipulate.
Layering and texture – ideal for building depth and tactile interest.
Colour range – vibrant, pure, and adaptable to many moods.
Adaptable to different styles – from sharp and precise to soft and atmospheric.
Mixed media compatibility – blends beautifully with texture paste, collage, or other materials.
Surface finish – can be matte or glossy, depending on the artist’s intent.

The combination of acrylics and texture paste allows for a dynamic interplay between colour, texture, and form — giving the artwork a unique, tactile quality. It’s a medium that rewards curiosity, experimentation, and the courage to explore new directions.

Transparent glass chess figures are floating on the dark blue water using newspaper boats as a transport. The rules of the game had changed, the surface is not black and white any more and the figures become transparent - an allegory to modern life.

Green iguana looking at the viewer sitting on a highly ornate textile.

Black and grey Butterflies with blue spots, on silver textured background, made in acrylic and texture paste

Portrait of my niece Stephanie with her cat and dog and her pink fairytale world

Portrait of a student of Kings school Sydney

“Double Solo exhibition at Chatswood Art Space on the Concourse ”

Our double solo exhibition at Chatswood Art Space on The Concourse was an experience we will long remember. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who visited, supported the exhibition, and purchased artworks — your engagement made this show truly meaningful. Out of my 28 artworks presented (18 on the walls and 10 in storage), 19 have found new homes. Over the ten days of the exhibition, we had the privilege of speaking with around 600 visitors, and we are deeply grateful for the thoughtful feedback and personal stories shared along the way. Special thanks go to the Willoughby Council staff and Mayor Tanya Taylor for their support and smooth organisation. We are also thankful to our guest speaker Alan Davies and musician Viktoria Stepanenko, whose contributions added depth and warmth to the opening evening. The atmosphere throughout the exhibition was generous and engaging. We hope visitors carried a sense of positivity with them, and perhaps a renewed desire to connect with nature — something art does best when it is shared.

“Five Exhibitions in One Month!”

In August I am exhibiting my work in four group exhibitions across Sydney and one in Brisbane! If you're need to recharge your creative batteries this month, I'd love for you to visit one (or more!) of these exhibitions. Admissions are free. Throughout the month, you’ll be able to see my paintings in: Freedom and Sustainability 3–20 August 2026 The Gallery Ramp Space St Ives Village 166 Mona Vale Road, St Ives NSW 2075 The Winter Edit

The Versatility of Acrylics

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