In acrylic painting classes, understanding the three primary acrylic paint mediums—gloss, matte, and gel—is essential for versatile artwork. Gloss medium adds a shiny, vibrant finish to colors and increases transparency, making it ideal for layering. Gel medium is thicker and adds texture, perfect for creating a 3D effect and building layers. These mediums offer endless possibilities in acrylic painting, allowing artists to experiment with different effects and textures, enhancing both creativity and technique.