What is the characteristic technique of dry brush painting?

The characteristic technique of dry brush painting involves applying thick paint with a brush that is relatively dry. This method allows for a textured, scratchy quality that can highlight the brush strokes and create an expressive effect on the canvas. The dryness of the brush prevents excessive saturation of the surface, resulting in a more controlled, layered application of color that can emphasize the underlying texture of the substrate, whether it's canvas, paper, or wood.

This technique is particularly effective for creating detailed highlights and adding depth to a painting. The way the paint settles into the textured surface can evoke a sense of movement and vibrancy, bringing the artwork to life. Artists often use dry brush techniques to capture effects like sunlight glimmering on an object or to give a rough appearance to certain surfaces, such as bark on trees or rough stones.