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Remember the thrill of opening your first set of acrylic paints? The bright, unmarred tubes were a promise of potential masterpieces in waiting. With each dab and stroke, you embarked on a journey through a vivid spectrum of emotions. As you stand before a fresh canvas now, allow me to guide you through the transformative world of acrylic painting techniques for beginners. This is where spontaneous evening doodles evolve into art, where the untrained hand learns the dance of color and form. Buckle up, artist-to-be, and prepare for an acrylic painting tutorial for beginners that will not just fill your portfolio with hues, but your heart with the joy of creation. Whether it’s the accidental beauty that emerges from splashing paint or the deliberate finesse of a fine brushstroke, let’s translate that eager spark within you onto canvas, with essential beginner acrylic painting tips to ignite your passion for painting.
Key Takeaways
- Embrace the starter’s spirit by exploring fundamental acrylic painting techniques tailored for novices.
- Step-by-step guidance to transform those first timid brushstrokes into confident, artistic expressions.
- Unveil tips and tricks that simplify the painting process, making masterpieces more attainable than ever.
- Learn to navigate the vast and vibrant spectrum of acrylic paints with practical color mixing advice.
- Benefit from beginner-centric tutorials that promise a fun and educational painting adventure.
- Discover the forgiving nature of acrylics, encouraging experimentation and personal style development.
- Begin your journey into the arts with the essential knowledge to make your canvas come alive.
Embrace the Versatility of Acrylics
As you delve into the swirling world of pigments and paints, it’s about time that you step into the spotlight with acrylics—your best ally in the realm of art. Think of acrylic painting for beginners step by step as a dance, one where the acrylics lead with grace and poise, accommodating moves like a seasoned partner. The allure lies not just in the vibrancy and the fast-drying whispers of a canvas but in the myriad of basic acrylic painting techniques they unlock.
It’s a medium that doesn’t throw tantrums; instead, it offers forgiveness, so you can boldly correct your brush strokes without the ghost of errors past looming over your masterpiece. From the sumptuous textures of heavy body acrylics that eagerly retain the memory of your brushwork, to the fluid acrylics that glide across the canvas, every consistency opens doors to new easy acrylic painting ideas.
With acrylics, each stroke is not just a mark of color but the beginning of a beautiful story on canvas, one where your creative spirit dictates the pace.
Imagine starting with a technique that mirrors the slow, deliberate nature of oil paints—using a slow-drying medium, or perhaps you wish to channel the ethereal feeling of watercolors—all within the grasp of your acrylics. Yes, the versatility is almost indulgent. The shared studio space lost in the cacophony of varied artistic expressions finds serenity with acrylics, thanks to their cooperative nature.
And the real kicker? You can inhabit the world of professional artists regardless of your experience level, for the enclave of acrylic painting welcomes all. Let’s lay down the basics and explore the qualities and applications of the varieties available at your fingertips:
| Type of Acrylic | Qualities | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Body Acrylics | Thick and rich with strong pigment load | Sculptural work, maintaining brushstrokes, palette knife painting |
| Fluid Acrylics | Smooth and creamy, with intense pigment concentration | Smooth blending, fine details, staining effects |
| Acrylic Inks | Highly fluid and transparent | Watercolor-like effects, airbrushing, calligraphy |
The daring souls who plunge into the depths of artistic creation will find a worthy companion in acrylic paints. After all, a medium that morphs with every artist’s unique touch is not just a tool—it’s a canvas comrade. So grab your brushes, and let’s embark on this chromatic journey of self-expression, stroke by stroke, shade by shade.
Prepping Your Canvas: Gesso and Underpainting
Before you dive into the vibrant world of acrylics, let’s mull over the canvas—your stage for color and creativity. As with any grand performance, preparation is key. Think of gesso as your behind-the-scenes technician, making sure the canvas is ready for its spotlight moment. Now, follow these steps and get a crash course in setting the stage for a riveting acrylic painting project for beginners.
The Role of Gesso in Acrylic Painting
Imagine a rock climber without a sturdy wall—without gesso, your paint is that climber, struggling for grip. Gesso brings out the best in your canvas, creating a surface that your acrylics can’t wait to cling to. It’s not just any old primer; it’s the foundation for all your basic acrylic painting techniques.
Tip: Two coats of gesso are often better than one. Want to add a tad of tint? Mix in a bit of acrylic color to personalize your base layer.
Creating an Underpainting for Depth and Texture
You’re not just painting; you’re a magician of mediums, a conjurer of colors. Crafting an underpainting is like whispering secrets to your canvas that will only be revealed through your final layers. It’s the subtle art of suggestion that brings depth and intrigue to even the most basic acrylic painting project for beginners.
| Material | Role in Preparation | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Gesso | Primes the canvas, adds texture | Apply multiple layers for increased ‘tooth’ |
| Acrylic Color (for tinting) | Adds a hint of color to the gesso base | Choose a color that complements the palette of your painting |
| Brushes/Sponges | Application of gesso and underpainting | Use broad strokes for an even application |
With your stage set and the canvas beckoning, it’s your turn to shine. Embrace these acrylic painting basics for beginners, and embark on a painting escapade that’s true to you. Who knows, this canvas could be the first of many masterpieces!
Acrylic Painting Techniques for Beginners
Hey there, fledgling Picasso! Looking to dive into acrylic painting techniques for beginners? You’re in luck because these adaptable mediums are your ticket to creating jaw-dropping masterpieces, even if you’re just starting out. Strap in, let’s turn those easy acrylic painting ideas into tangible art right through this acrylic painting tutorial for beginners.
Dabble in diluting your paints. A drop of water, and voilà, your acrylics are masquerading as watercolors, creating a matte-finish that whispers elegance. But why stop there? The fun’s just begun. Grab a stiff brush, and get acquainted with stippling. Those tiny dots? They’ll add a dash of texture faster than you can say “pointillism.”
Feeling adventurous? It’s time for acrylic pouring, where you’ll tip and tilt your canvas, watching colors flow into eye-catching patterns. And remember, less is sometimes more—a gentle lift of paint with a dry brush can mimic soft clouds drifting across a summer sky.
Now, let’s get geometric! Sharp lines and crisp edges are a cinch with painter’s tape. Map out your design, press down the tape, and paint with confidence, knowing you’ll pull away to reveal nothing but perfection. Or why not let loose with a splatter technique? It’s a surefire way to bring the chaos of a starry night or the randomness of a gravel path onto your canvas.
To put it all into perspective, here’s a handy table comparing these techniques. Trust me, it’s quite the visual aid to get those creative gears turning.
| Technique | Effect Achieved | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Watered-Down Acrylics | Watercolor-like washes | Backgrounds, Underpainting |
| Stippling | Textured, dotted surfaces | Adding texture to objects, foliage |
| Acrylic Pouring | Fluid, abstract patterns | Dynamic backgrounds, Abstract Art |
| Lifting Paint | Delicate, light effects | Skies, Reflections, Soft Details |
| Painter’s Tape | Sharp lines, geometric shapes | Architectural scenes, Hard Edges |
| Splattering | Random, natural textures | Starry Skies, Sandy Beaches |
So, dare to play, explore, and get your hands (just a little) dirty. With these intuitive techniques, your acrylic journey promises to be as colorful as the paintings you’ll create!
Understanding Acrylic Paint Properties
You’ve decided to embark on an acrylic painting project for beginners, and understanding the paint you’ll be using is as essential as mastering a brush. Imagine you’re stepping into a world where the texture, consistency, and flow of your paints define the success of your masterpiece. Let’s dive into the types of acrylic paints that will shape your creative journey.
Comparing Heavy Body with Soft Body Acrylics
If you’re looking for texture that stands out on the canvas, heavy body acrylics are your go-to. Imagine leaving a trail of rich, vibrant lines with each stroke—perfect for when you want your work to pop off the canvas. Meanwhile, soft body acrylics are like the gracious ballerinas of the paint world, smoothly gliding across your surface, allowing for subtle shading and gentle transitions that are ideal for realistic images or detailed work.
As each type caters to different styles and techniques, knowing when to use which can be a game changer. Are you painting impasto, where the paint itself becomes a three-dimensional aspect of the artwork? Reach for the heavy body. Or is your aim a more watercolor feel with delicate blends? The soft body is calling your name.
Exploring High Flow Acrylics and Inks
Then there’s the new kid on the block: high flow acrylics. These are for the adventurous souls—the daredevils of painting. Do you need ink-like consistency for airbrushing, ultra-detailed work, or simply love to watch colors merge and meld in unpredictable ways? High flow acrylics are much like watercolors, yet packed with the same pigment punch as their heavier counterparts. They’re versatile enough for a range of applications, from staining effects to fine-line detail. Preset notions aside, you might find that these can add a dash of spontaneity to your work like no other.
Remember, each project demands a different approach, and luckily, with acrylics, you have an entire spectrum of possibilities at your fingertips. So go forth, and let your beginner acrylic painting tips evolve into full-blown techniques as dynamic and diverse as the paints you choose.
The Essentials for Beginner Acrylic Painters
Embarking on your acrylic painting journey? You’ll want to accumulate the essential tools and materials that’ll make your creative process as efficient as Picasso’s. Think of this not as a scavenger hunt but as the assembly of your personal Art Avengers. Let’s start with the basics:
Choosing the Right Brushes
Finding your brush soulmate isn’t as daunting as your latest swipe-left spree. Brushes are the conduits between your wild imagination and the canvas. They come in different shapes and sizes, each with a special tutelage in the art of mark-making:
- Round Brushes – For those darling details and whimsical washes.
- Flat Brushes – Your go-to for bold, straight lines and filling expanses with color.
- Filbert Brushes – When you crave a blend of round and flat, for softly rounded strokes.
- Angular Flat Brushes – Perfect for curved lines and tight corners where flat brushes fear to tread.
- Fan Brushes – Ideal for texture and feathering, making your painting almost ticklish with delight.
Choose brushes that feel right in your hand and make your heart sing (in tune, preferably).
Selecting a Palette of Colors
Ah, colors! The spices of the visual arts. A well-curated palette is your best friend in the battlefield of artistry. Start with your primary colors, toss in some secondary shades, and don’t forget a few quirky outliers just for fun:
| Basic Colors | Why You Need Them |
|---|---|
| Phthalo Blue | The cool, deep ocean you need for everything from skies to shadows. |
| Cadmium Red | A punch of bold to say, “Hey, look here!” |
| Yellow Ochre | A warm, earthy tone that mixes surprisingly well, like your favorite cocktail. |
| White | For taming those wild colors and adding highlights that pop. |
| Black (use sparingly) | To add depth and define those dramatic moments in your work. |
Think of each color as a personality; get to know them, mix them, and watch the magic happen.
Canvas vs. Paper: Picking Your Painting Surface
Choosing between canvas and paper is like picking between a dance floor and a trampoline – they both have bounce, but the feel is worlds apart:
- Canvas: A sturdy, reliable surface that’s primed for longevity – it’s like the tortoise in the race, dependable and textured.
- Canvas Boards: A convenient canvas alternative that won’t hog your space. It’s like having your cake and eating it too, sans the crumbs.
- Acrylic Paper: A heavyweight contender that’s not as intimidating as canvas. It lets you waltz with your paints without the commitment.
Each surface has its own rhythm and responds uniquely to your brush’s dance.
And remember, keep a stash of cloths and rags to clean your brushes between color changes, and have a water pot for rinsing. With these tools at hand, you’ll be well on your way to mastering beginner acrylic painting tips and the basic acrylic painting techniques. Now, go forth and create with the confidence of the acrylic painting basics for beginners guru you are destined to become!
Mastering Basic Brushwork Techniques
Hey there, aspiring artist! Ready to make some magic with acrylics? Let’s jump into the acrylic painting basics for beginners. First up, wield your brush like a wand as we explore basic acrylic painting techniques. But remember, every master was once a disaster, so let’s roll up those sleeves and get to practicing!
Start with dry brushing. It’s simple: just dip your brush lightly in paint, wipe off the excess, and sweep it across your canvas. You’ll get this wickedly cool scratchy texture that gives your work character!
But what if you want something smoother, like the sheen on an apple or the luster of a calm lake? That’s where wet-on-dry technique struts in. Paint over a dry layer with a wet brush, and watch as colors kiss the surface with minimum fuss and maximum control.
Feeling adventurous? Dive into the wet-on-wet technique. Mix those pigments directly on the canvas while still wet. It’s like hosting a dance party for colors—let them mingle and groove into sensational blends.
And don’t forget the dotty charm of stippling. It’s like pointillism’s cousin, only funkier. Use the tip of your brush to create a fantasia of dots and watch the form take shape. Impressionistic vibes, anyone?
Remember, the brush type sets the tone of your acrylic symphony. From the broad strokes of a large bristle brush to the delicate whispers of a fine-point, your choice is your voice.
- Large bristle brush: Ideal for bold, unapologetic strokes. Perfect for underpainting or adding drama.
- Rounded tip brush: Your go-to for general painting. Good for both detailed work and filling in larger areas.
- Small fine-point brush: The Sherlock Holmes of brushes—ideal for the detailed investigation of those intricate spaces.
| Technique | Description | Brush Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Brushing | Lightly apply paint for a textured effect | Bristle brushes |
| Wet-on-Dry | Smooth application over a dry surface | Rounded tip brush |
| Wet-on-Wet | Blending colors directly on wet paint | Soft brushes |
| Stippling | Creating patterns with dots | Stiff brushes |
It’s a wild and thrilling world, the realm of acrylic painting for beginners step by step. So, keep these tips in your artist’s toolkit, experiment without fear, and watch as your brushstrokes blossom into masterpieces. Keep on painting, Picasso!
Layering and Blending: Crafting Dimension
Embarking on an acrylic painting project for beginners can feel like setting sail on a voyage through a sea of color and creativity. As the captain of your canvas, you’ll discover that layering and blending are your trusty navigational tools, guiding you towards a masterpiece brimming with depth and lifelike dimension. Let’s dip our brushes into the techniques that make those mountains majestically rise off the plane and the clouds float across a sun-kissed sky.
Layering Acrylic Paints for Richness
Think of each layer you add as another secret ingredient to your visual elixir. With the swift-drying nature of acrylics, you have the superpower to build upon a dry base in rapid succession. This not only amps up the richness but lets you tweak details with deft precision or pull a 180° turn on your color scheme without breaking a sweat. Here’s a key beginner acrylic painting tip: get to know your pigments—some are bashful and translucent, while others are bold and opaque, completely changing the layering game.
Techniques for Seamless Blending
Blending in acrylic can feel akin to alchemy, turning disparate hues into a gradient gold. Your aim? To achieve that seamless transition that gently whispers from one color to the next. Whether you’re pursuing easy acrylic painting ideas or complex compositions, the wet-on-wet approach will be your trusty sidekick in this quest. With a gentle touch and a bit of practice, you’ll be swirling together sunsets and ocean waves that ripple with realism.
| Technique | Layering | Blending |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Add depth and complexity | Create smooth transitions |
| Key Tool | Dry Brush | Wet Brush |
| Paint Consistency | Heavier for texture, lighter for fine details | Uniform to avoid unwanted textures |
| Secret Tip | Let layers dry to avoid muddying | Keep edges wet to intermingle colors |
As you navigate through these techniques, remember that every canvas is a journey, and each stroke is a step forward in that journey. Whether you’re after geometrical landscapes or dreamy skies, your layered masterpiece will grow richer with every layer and smoother with each blend. No doubt, acrylic painting is an adventure where you’re both the artist and the explorer, and with these techniques, your beginner’s compass is set for success.
Easy Acrylic Painting Ideas to Get You Started
Feeling the itch to swipe some vibrant hues across a canvas? Acrylic painting may be just the outlet you need for your burgeoning artistic talent. For you, dear beginner, it’s all about starting with methods that are both rewarding and eminently doable – saving the fuss for later. Let’s dive into some acrylic painting techniques for beginners that will have you creating masterpieces in no time.
Abstract Art: Acrylic Pouring and Dripping
Ready for a little art magic? Abstract art defies the need for detailed brushwork, giving you the freedom to explore color and form without stress. Acrylic pouring and dripping are not just easy acrylic painting ideas, they are also a ton of fun! You simply let the paint do the work as it glides across the canvas, creating kaleidoscopic, free-form designs unique unto themselves – a perfect acrylic painting tutorial for beginners.
But don’t just watch the paint dry; tilt and turn your canvas to guide the flow, building layers as you go. This technique embraces accidents and celebrates surprises – essentially, it’s a free pass to get messy and call it art!
Landscapes and Seascapes: Building with Layers
Craving more control? Then landscape or seascape painting is your port of call. Here, the joys of acrylic painting techniques for beginners shine through layer-by-layer. You’ll stack shades upon tints, constructing the mesmerizing complexity of nature. It’s all about the illusion of depth, assembling a myriad of textures, from feathery clouds to frothy waves.
Remember, in acrylic landscapes, every layer is a step closer to a realistic haven.
| Technique | Effect | Level of Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic Pouring | Abstract patterns with vibrant swirls | Beginner |
| Dripping | Dynamic streaks with gravity-defined motion | Beginner |
| Layered Landscape | Depth and realism in natural scenes | Intermediate |
| Textured Seascapes | Dimensional waterscapes with tactile appeal | Intermediate |
Each stroke and layer you add is a loving nod to your creative spirit wanting to branch out. Whether you’re letting the paint freely flow or meticulously marshalling your hues into a serene seascape, acrylic painting is your playground. So grab those brushes – or don’t – and let the colors lead your imagination on a journey.
Acrylic Painting Basics for Beginners
Embarking on your artistic journey with acrylics, you’ll want to cozy up to some acrylic painting basics for beginners. Before you even think of going Van Gogh on your canvas, let’s ensure you’ve got a grip on your gear—starting from choosing the right kind of surface to the last stroke you lay down.
Begin by priming your canvas; it’s like stretching before a run, essential but often overlooked. Then, move on to selecting the right brushes and paints. Understand that bristles are your bridge to the canvas. They’re not just tools; they’re your accomplices in the creation!
And the paints! Oh, the paints! Thick blobs of glossy colors waiting for you to tame them. Get to know the quick-drying superheroes of the art world—acrylics. As a beginner, you’ll appreciate their ability to forgive as you learn. Made an oopsie? No problem; another layer will right your wrongs.
Remember, young artist, patience is paramount when you’re getting to grips with drying times—too eager, and you might lift more than your spirits!
- Becoming chums with various paint consistencies is a tad like potion-making—each concoction has its own magic.
- Basic brushwork is your wand waving; practice the flicks, swirls, and dabs to cast visual spells on your canvas.
- Color mixing isn’t just a technique; it’s an adventure in hue hunting. Turn your palette into a treasure map of shades!
Now, let’s put this chat into chat into action, shall we? A color mixing chart isn’t merely handy; it’s your lexicon of chromatic know-how. Watch and learn as your chart grows from naive scribbles to a sophisticated index of pigments.
| Your Brave Beginnings | Your Glorious Gains |
|---|---|
| Mastering the monochromatic mood | Finding rhythm in complementary colors |
| Discovering the world in primaries | Conjuring the subtle magic of secondaries |
| Getting friendly with the fundamentals | Brushwork that speaks in textures and tales |
As your foray into basic acrylic painting techniques unfolds, you’ll find there’s a certain beauty in beginning. Take each brushstroke as a lesson and each mixed color as an achievement. Keep at it, and you’ll soon dance through palettes and dabble in dimensions like the pros.
Exploring Color Theory in Acrylic Painting
Embark on a color-filled journey through the vibrant world of acrylics, where the understanding of color theory isn’t just helpful—it’s absolutely transformative for your art! This exploration is more than a science; it’s an intimate dance with the rainbow itself. Unleashing the full spectrum on your palette begins with decoding the mysteries of primary, secondary, and tertiary hues. As you start your acrylic painting project for beginners, you’ll discover that every color whispers a different story, and your job is to learn their language.
Creating a Personal Color Mixing Chart
Forget about aimlessly dabbing at your canvas, hoping for the best. Step by step, you’ll craft a personal color mixing chart that’s akin to a treasure map in your artistic quest. This chart is your trusty compass in navigating the sea of shades, ensuring you’re never lost among the endless tints and tones. It’s more than a reference; it’s your custom guide, personalized with intuitive understanding and hard-earned expertise—because there’s no one-size-fits-all in art!
Making the Most of Opaque and Transparent Colors
Next, add another layer of sophistication to your beginner acrylic painting tips by discerning the charismatic duo of opaque and transparent colors. Behold the power they possess on your canvas—opaque colors coat with confidence, casting bold shadows, while their transparent counterparts play a game of peek-a-boo, allowing underlying layers to shine through. Their interplay can conjure depth or luminosity, all depending on your deft artistic choices. Don’t just paint—orchestrate a visual symphony with every stroke!
FAQ
What are some acrylic painting techniques for beginners?
You’ve hit the jackpot if you’re looking for ways to get your brushes wet! Dabbing, pouring, lifting paint, and using painter’s tape for crisp, mean-clean lines are just the tip of the iceberg. Splatter like you just don’t care for that starry-night effect or go zen with smooth dry brushing. Palette-knifing (totally a word) your way through details and dancing with dark and light contrasts will add oodles of depth to your masterpiece. Ready, set, paint!
How can I embrace the versatility of acrylics?
Think of acrylics like the superhero of paints—they can morph into whatever you need them to be! Add water to channel your inner Monet or go thick and heavy to lay down some serious texture like Van Gogh on his best day. The sky’s the limit when you can experiment with mediums that give you the speed of The Flash drying or the mellow chill of a slow-drying oil paint vibe.
What’s the role of Gesso in acrylic painting?
Gesso is your canvas’s best friend—think of it as a prep school for your painting’s education. It’s the smooth-talking layer that makes your canvas toothy and textured so that every bit of paint hangs on for dear life. It’s the primer that says, “Let’s get this art party started!”
Why create an underpainting for depth and texture?
Underpainting is like the secret base layer that makes everything pop. It’s adding that bit of spicy mystery underneath so that every layer above it says “Wow!” in harmonious chorus. It sets the mood, adds complexity, and frankly, makes your painting look like you know a thing or two about a thing or two.
How do heavy body acrylics compare to soft body acrylics?
Imagine this – heavy body acrylics are like whipped cream, thick and lush for when you want those brush strokes to stand up and salute. Soft body acrylics, on the other hand, are like your favorite lotion, smooth and blendable for when you want to get all misty-eyed with your backgrounds.
What’s the scoop on high flow acrylics and inks?
Well, darling, high flow acrylics and inks are the runway models of the paint world – sleek, svelte, and ready to glide across your canvas. They’re perfect for when you need that paint to just flow with the grace of a ballerina or the precision of a calligrapher’s pen.
Why is choosing the right brushes important?
Brushes are your wands in the wizarding world of painting. The right one can conjure up everything from a bold, sweeping statement to a whisper of a detail. So choose wisely, my friend, because your magic depends on it.
How do I pick my painting surface: canvas vs. paper?
Get ready for a texture tango! Canvas brings the drama with a little bit of give and that classic painting feel. But don’t underestimate paper – it’s sleek, it’s versatile, and it’s ready for those casual art flings. Ultimately, it’s all about what kind of dance floor you want for your brushstrokes to groove on.
What basic brushwork techniques should I master?
Master the ancient art of brush-fu! Dry brushing will give you texture so real you could touch it, while wet-on-wet makes colors blend like they’re at a paint mixer’s party. Get stippling for a dose of pointillism and watch the limits of your canvas fade away with every skilled stroke.
What’s so great about layering acrylic paints?
Layering is like building a sandwich so good, it’d make a deli chef weep. Each layer adds a new flavor to your painting, making colors richer and details pop like 3D without the glasses. It’s your ticket to a painting that’s tastier than a seven-layer dip at a game day party.
Are there any easy acrylic painting ideas for a beginner like me?
You bet your sweet palette there are! Dip your toes in with some abstract workouts. Let acrylic pouring set your creativity loose like a toddler with finger paints. Or try landscapes and seascapes to paint those happy little trees and waves like a pro!
Do I really need to bother with color theory?
Bother? Darling, color theory is the gossip at the color wheel cocktail party. It’s the “who’s dating who” of painting. Knowing which colors play nice and which ones create the drama means you’ll be the life of that art bash. A personal mixing chart? It’s like your diary of colorful escapades!
Source Links
- https://www.paintingtogogh.com/blogs/news/acrylic-painting-techniques
- https://www.artsupplies.co.uk/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-painting-with-acrylics-tips-to-get-started/
- https://theoutdoorsyartist.com/beginner-acrylic-painting-techniques/
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