Build the textured base
We mix texture medium into the acrylics and build rich, textured base layers, the foundation the whole painting grows from.
A Textured Figure in Acrylics
Paint an expressive figure with texture & layers.
Mini Class · Acrylics & Texture Medium
Do you love expressive figures full of texture and layers?
In this mini class I'll guide you step by step through painting a beautiful, expressive figure using acrylics and Powerwax (another Heavy Gel Medium works too!). We'll build rich textured layers, create an abstract background full of color, and let a figure emerge from the paint. We then add some fun collage!
Start anytime, work at your own pace, and enjoy lifetime access. This is a self-guided class, but you can always reach out to me by email if you have questions.
My 3-step method
This is what we'll do together
Three simple stages, with everything explained as we go.
Create the abstract background
We layer an abstract background full of colour, letting the marks and texture build up before the figure appears.
Let the figure emerge
We draw an expressive figure into the layers and add some fun collage, letting the face emerge from the paint.
Acrylics & texture medium
Simple supplies, even an old credit card works to apply the paint.
Perfect for everyone
Total beginner or seasoned painter, you're going to love this.
Step by step
I walk you through every single stage.
Yours forever
Lifetime access, rewatch whenever you want.
Prefer French or Dutch? Every lesson is translated, with subtitles on all videos.
Inside the class
What you'll take with you
- A complete step-by-step painting of a figure
- Techniques for building textured base layers with Powerwax or Heavy Gel Medium
- How to create an expressive abstract background
- Drawing and integrating a figure into abstract layers
- Scraping, layering, and mark-making techniques
- Lifetime access, rewatch anytime
Meet your instructor
Marina Teding van Berkhout
Cold wax artist & instructor
I'm Marina, a Dutch professional artist living in the south of France. I'm passionate about painting figures — capturing an emotion with the tilt of a head or the look in the eyes, without too many details. Working with acrylics plus Powerwax or Heavy Gel Medium gives me the freedom to build texture and create those layered backgrounds I love. I can't wait to share this process with you.
Students
What painters are saying
“Marina clearly describes her step-by-step process, making textures with fun tools, and encourages you to play, experiment and find your own style.”
“Marina is so talented and gracious, sharing her cold wax process in both oil and acrylic.”
“Loved all of the courses I did with Marina. She is an excellent teacher.”
Look what you can create
Student work 💙
Questions?
Frequently asked
Do I need experience painting figures?+
No! I'll guide you through every step. You don't need to be able to draw perfectly, the beauty of this technique is that the figure grows from the abstract background. I'll show you exactly how.
What is Powerwax and where can I buy it?+
Powerwax is a water-based cold wax medium that works beautifully with acrylics. It gives you the same gorgeous texture as traditional cold wax but dries faster and cleans up with water. You can find where to buy it on my website at marinatvb.com/powerwax-for-acrylics.
What supplies do I need?+
Acrylic paints, Powerwax, a few brushes, a palette knife, soft pastels for drawing, and a canvas or panel. I'll give you the full supply list inside the class, nothing fancy or expensive needed.
Can I use oils instead of acrylics?+
This class is designed specifically for acrylics with Powerwax. If you prefer oils and cold wax, check out my other figure classes, I teach the same subjects in both mediums.
How long do I have access?+
Forever! Once you're enrolled, the lessons are yours for life. Come back whenever you want, many students tell me they rewatch the demonstrations every time they paint.
What's the difference between this mini class and the full class?+
This mini class focuses on one figure painting project, perfect for a quick creative boost. The full Cold Wax & Acrylics class goes much deeper with multiple projects, advanced techniques, and more in-depth guidance to develop your own style.
Keep painting with me
The Texture Lab membership
If you loved this mini class, join The Texture Lab for fresh lessons, creative prompts, and warm support to keep your art practice moving.
View membershipReady to paint a figure?
Grab your paints, pour a coffee, and let's create something beautiful together.
$19 · One-time payment · Lifetime access · Secure checkout