(close-up section of a larger work on 300 lb watercolour paper)
Texture can be a visual treat besides a tactile pleasure. We can appreciate the look of the undulations of the paint rippling across the canvas or paper, but if we are given permission to delicately touch the surface in order to enjoy the folds and marks in the thick paint we satisfy a very basic need... the pleasure of touch.
I often day dream about running my hand across a Van Gogh painting... the mere thought sends shivers down my spine.