paint down

The phrase "paint down" can refer to several techniques in art and film, each involving the application of paint in different ways.

Definition

C1Film

(historical, controversial)To apply makeup to an actor to change their skin color, often associated with the outdated and offensive practice of blackface.

Example

  • The director decided not to paint down any actors, respecting the cultural sensitivities.

B2Art

(technical)To apply a base layer of paint to a canvas, often to establish the underlying tones and values for a painting.

Example

  • Before adding details, she painted down a layer of ochre to set the tone.

B2Modeling

(technical)To thin paints to achieve a smooth, even application, often used in miniature modeling.

Example

  • He painted down the acrylics to get a fine, even coat on the model.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "paint down":

paint outpaint uppaint jobmatter paintingpaint shoptrade paintfinger paintingpaint by numbersspray paintdraw onbody paintingmake downall-over paintinglight paintingoil paintingpaint the tapedot paintingput downchalk downreverse paintingdrip paintingaction paintingwax down