Different paints create different effects, so you'll want to carefully think about the type of art paint you choose. Some paints artists often work with include: Acrylic paints: These versatile paints work well for everything from fine brushwork to glazing to staining and beyond. Acrylic paints are smooth, light, and durable. Gouache: Gouache is water-soluble and opaque. It dries dark and takes a long time to dry. Oil paints: Durable paints that provide a glossy finish, oil paints create long-lasting coverage. Oil paints dry slowly, so you can gradually develop your work. Watercolor paints: These translucent paints contain pigment and a binder. The pigment is suspended in water until the water dries, staining the surface in the process. Watercolors dry quickly and let you brush with fluidity.