The term Absorbent in regards to art generally refers to surfaces or materials, for example a painting surface such as an artists canvas is naturally highly absorbent and needs to be sealed using gesso prior to painting so that the first layers of paint will adhere to the surface rather than absorb into the canvas.

An absorbent surface is generally anything that will attract, soak in or absorb a liquid. One of the most absorbent items used by an artist are a sponge, paper towel or a rag. The absorbent qualities in these items can be used to absorb paint and then apply the paint in creative ways, or to quickly clean up spills in the studio.