What is the fuss about solvents? Recently I researched an article comparing oil paints. I was interested to read about health risks associated with artist materials. About that time I also happened to be talking to an artist about how I work in my studio. During the discussion he mentioned two artists who were afflicted with Parkinson's disease. Although these artists lived normal lifespans it was noteworthy that they shared this disease too. My mind started creating images of toxic waste in my humble studio. Maybe it was time to reassess basic studio safety.
It is well known that paint pigments commonly used by the impressionists, for example, had high lead content. There was also the risky use of zinc in zinc white. The risks were high since these early formulations had high content of toxic chemicals that could be easily absorbed through the skin. Certainly any pigments ingested accidentally posed a higher risk. It has been suggested that Van Gogh even ate paint in fits of depression. Not helpful! Fortunately lead and zinc usage in paint has been eliminated or at least, in the case of zinc, reduced and altered to safer proportions. The same applies to cadmium too. Zinc still poses high risks so use with caution.
What about solvents? The use of solvents to clean brushes is difficult to avoid for oil painters. There are water based oil paints coming onto the market, but traditional linseed oil based paints are still the most popular. The problem with solvents is that they can be absorbed through inhalation and through the skin. The risks are particularly high if you use turpentine based solvent. Hydrocarbons and petroleum distillates are hazardous too.
The most important issue is to use good quality artists spirits that are entirely odorless. I have encountered artists using hardware store solvents that are not odorless. Not only do these intense odors induce headaches, but the volatile chemicals are inhaled and absorbed posing high risk of poisoning. Like I said the spirits should be entirely odorless not simply reduced in odor. Citrus based spirits are also available and these are less risky too although more expensive.
Next tip is to use small amounts of solvent while painting. Much of the paint can be removed with tissue paper during your painting. Use several brushes too so that you do not muddy up lights and darks using the same brush. This will help to reduce the amount of solvent cleaning required in a painting session. You can also get good results using a bit of olive oil and massage the brush into a little olive oil then clean off with tissue.
Safety is also increased if you use latex gloves while painting and cleaning brushes. I was skeptical of this at first. I thought the gloves would feel odd and distract me, but actually I barely noticed them. Gloves also make cleaning up a cinch and save me hassle when painting outdoors especially when I have to drive back home - there is always paint getting onto the steering wheel! Latex gloves are cheap and available in bulk at the supermarket so it was no hardship to add this to my set-up.
When in the studio make sure there is cross ventilation. Do not let wastepaper baskets pile up with solvent and paint covered rubbish. Dispose of these items the same day.
Surely it goes without saying that none of these materials should get into your mouth or eyes so be careful about absentmindedly eating with paint covered fingers or rubbing an eye while painting.
So no need to get into a panic. A bit of common sense and a few precautions is all it takes to stay safe and enjoy your painting.
