The painting refers generally to the technique of applying pigment in liquid form to a surface, in order to color it, giving it tints, tones and textures.

In a more specific sense, is the art of painting a surface, such as paper, canvas, or a wall (mural or fresco). The oil painting is considered by many as a traditional art media more important, many of the art world's most important, such as the Mona Lisa, are oil paintings.

It differs from the design through the use of liquid pigments and the constant use of color, while the other mainly of dry materials.

However, there is controversy about the definition of painting. With the variety of experiences between different media and the use of digital technology, the idea that painting need not limit the application of the "pigment in liquid form." Today the concept of painting can be extended to the visual representation and colors. Still, the traditional definition of painting should not be ignored.