Definition of the word gouache

The origins of the word "gouache" can be traced back to the French language. In the 18th century, French artists used the term "gouache colore" to describe a type of painting that involved applying watercolor pigments more heavily, creating a thicker and more concentrated color. The name "gouache" is derived from the Old French word "gouch" or "gouche," which means "scraper." This is in reference to the traditional technique of applying the pigment to the paper with a palette knife or scraper instead of a brush, creating a textured and staccato effect. The use of gouache began to increase in popularity during the Art Nouveau movement in the late 19th century, thanks in part to the work of artists like Alphonse Mucha and Eugène Grasset, who embraced the medium's bold colors and rich textures. Nowadays, gouache is still used by artists and designers around the world, thanks in part to its versatility and affordability. Today, gouache paints are made with more binding agents and less water than standard watercolor paints, giving them a thicker consistency and more opaque color.