Oil paints are primarily made from which fundamental components?

The primary components of oil paints are pigment and a drying oil. The pigment provides color and opacity to the paint, while the drying oil acts as a binder, holding the pigment in place and allowing it to adhere to the painting surface. This combination is crucial because the drying oil also contributes to the overall texture and finish of the paint as it dries and hardens, which can affect the longevity and appearance of the artwork.

Other options do not accurately represent the makeup of oil paints. Water and pigment is associated with watercolors, where water serves as the medium. Wax and dye refer more to crayon or encaustic techniques, which are entirely different mediums. Solvent and ink suggest a fluid that doesn’t align with the oil-based composition, as oil paints do not use solvents in the same way as inks or water-based paints. Thus, the correct answer highlights the essential composition of oil paints that defines their unique properties and effectiveness in artistic expression.