What allows ink to be used effectively with a pen or brush?

The effectiveness of ink with a pen or brush primarily stems from its composition as a liquid pigment. Liquid pigments have a unique ability to flow smoothly and evenly, which ensures a consistent application on various surfaces. This fluidity allows artists to create varying line widths and styles, enhancing their ability to express themselves through their work.

Liquid pigments are suspended in a medium that facilitates easy application, making them suitable for both detailed work and broader strokes. The viscosity of liquid ink can be adjusted to achieve different effects, such as fine lines or washes, depending on the artist's intention. In contrast, solid pigments would not flow in the same way, and other materials like chalk or compressed mediums do not share the same properties that allow for controlled application with precision tools like pens and brushes.

Thus, the use of a liquid pigment is fundamental to inking processes in art, enabling greater creativity and versatility in line-making and shading techniques.