Don't "Photo-Copy" Your Next Painting

Don't "Photo-Copy" Your Next Painting

As artists we sometimes get into a rut using photographs from which to create our work. Photographs are easy because the image they contain is right in front of us. I find that nearly all beginning students completely rely on the image in the photograph as their composition - this is what I refer to as "photo-copying". This is not necessarily their fault because no one has ever taught them about the principles of design and how to utilize those principles to develop a composition. The design of the painting is really more important than the production quality of the finished work. The design is as much the "art" of a piece as the production.

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Loosen-Up Your Painting Style - 20 Sure Fire Ways

Loosen-Up Your Painting Style - 20 Sure Fire Ways

When I am teaching Classes and Workshops, no one ever says "Show me how to be a tight painter". Everyone wants to know how to loosen up and paint in a fresh, colorful style. Painting loosely is my natural approach, however there are many elements of a loose technique that can be taught. Through my years as an artist I have developed a series of notes and observations on what it takes to "loosen-up" your paintings. Nearly all of these tips have a common denominator - simplification. The more you simplify what you do, the more it frees your mind to concentrate on staying loose. These are very simple techniques that anyone can do, so read and enjoy!

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