Painting by numbers is a popular hobby in which a canvas is pre-divided into numbered sections, each corresponding to a specific colour. The goal is to fill in the sections with the correct colours, following the provided colour key, to create a complete image. Painting by numbers has a rich history that spans from the Renaissance to the modern day. This popular activity has undergone various phases of popularity and controversy and has remained a beloved pastime for people of all ages
Origins of painting by numbers
- Early examples of painting by numbers in art history:
While the modern concept of painting by numbers as a commercialized hobby only emerged in the 20th century, the idea of dividing a canvas into sections and assigning each section a specific colour can be traced back to the Renaissance. One famous example is Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” in which the artist divided the walls of the refectory into a grid and assigned each section a specific colour in order to guide his apprentices in their paint application.
- Emergence of commercial kits in the 20th century:
The first commercial painting by numbers kits were produced in the 1950s by the Palmer Paint Company, who marketed them as a fun and easy way for people with no artistic training to create their own “masterpieces.” The kits became an instant hit and spawned numerous imitators.
Popularity of painting by numbers in the mid-20th century
- Explosion in popularity after World War II:
Painting by numbers became particularly popular in the 1950s and 1960s, during a time when many people were seeking leisure activities to help them relax and de-stress after the trauma of World War II. The kits were seen as a cheap and accessible form of self-expression and creativity.
- Examples of well-known paintings created with painting by numbers kits: During the height of their popularity, painting by numbers kits featured a wide range of subjects, from landscapes and still lifes to portraits and historical scenes. Some kits even allowed users to create their own designs. Some well-known paintings that were created using painting by numbers kits include “The Persistence of Memory” by Salvador Dali and “The Scream” by Edvard Munch.
Decline of painting by numbers in the late 20th century
- Competition from other leisure activities:
In the late 20th century, painting by numbers faced increasing competition from other leisure activities, such as video games and home computers. As a result, sales of painting by numbers began to decline.
- Stigma associated with painting by numbers as “uncreative”:
In addition to the rise of other leisure activities, painting by numbers also faced a growing stigma as being uncreative and lacking in artistic merit. This reputation was fuelled in part by the kits’ association with mass production and their reputation for being marketed towards children.
Revival of painting by numbers in the 21st century
- Rise of adult colouring books and other art therapy trends:
In recent years, painting by numbers has experienced a resurgence in popularity, fuelled in part by the rise of adult colouring books and other art therapy trends. Many people have rediscovered the relaxing and meditative benefits of coloring and painting, and painting by numbers provides a structured and accessible way for people to engage in these activities.
- Increased appreciation for the meditative and relaxing aspects of painting by numbers:
In addition to the rise of adult colouring books, there has also been an increased appreciation for the therapeutic and stress-relieving benefits of painting in general. Painting by numbers provides a way for people to engage in this activity without the pressure of having to come up with their own designs or worry about making mistakes.
To sum up, painting by numbers has a rich history that spans from the Renaissance to the modern day. It has undergone various phases of popularity and controversy but has remained a beloved pastime for people of all ages. Reflection on the enduring appeal of this popular activity: Despite the challenges it has faced, painting by numbers has continued to thrive and adapt to changing tastes and trends. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its ability to provide a sense of accomplishment and relaxation for people of all skill levels, as well as its versatility as a form of artistic expression.