When a viewer looks at a painting, mostly what they see are color shapes on a two dimensional surface. Fortunately, color comes with three qualities: hues, value, and intensity. Most artists artist desire to represent their subject as a by … Continue reading
We have selected blog posts and art tips that we feel are worthy of a revisit. They have been very popular. If you see an article that you may have missed or like to revisit, the small picture next to … Continue reading
In my paintings, I like to consider the different ways of leading the eye of the viewer with color and light. The unfinished painting on the left is one example of this. It shows the red umbrellas disappearing in the … Continue reading
An awareness of light and its subtle qualities is necessary for artists that wish to make dramatic paintings. Light is the difficult characteristic that separates the delightful from the mundane. It is the different nuances of light that help determine … Continue reading
There are at least three ways to light a scene: from a source shining outside a picture, from a light inside the picture that you can easily see, or from inside the scene that’s concealed from view~James Gurney (Color and … Continue reading
Inexperienced artists often paint shadows into their painting as an afterthought, without realizing the importance they play as a part of the overall composition. Shadows can create excitement and mystery, creating intrigue and entertaining a viewer. Although shadows are dark … Continue reading
I sometimes use a sunlamp or flashlight with my artwork after I feel the painting is finished, especially when I use watercolor media where I can lift the paint. What I attempt to accomplish is to see what the difference … Continue reading
To break through the unique challenge to paint light, an artist must first tackle its vague and abstract qualities. By its nature, light is the very essence of everything seen. The question is: how do we portray it properly in … Continue reading
Painting in open shade can sometimes be and often is a most frustrating experience of color contradictions. Predominantly, the color temperature, as it relates, is cool lights and warm darks, however this can easily reverse itself back and forth because … Continue reading
There should be a balanced order of shapes when laying out a landscape composition. I like to carry two “L” shaped pieces of matte board with me at all times. when I see a scene that I think is capable … Continue reading
