Monday, February 15, 2010

"SUNLIT STREAM" ( 12" x 12" Gallery Wrap canvas )

I love to paint the deep woods. There is mystery in the dark depth of the shadows. And the way the light filters through the trees is absolutely majestic! ( at least to me ) What appeals to me above all, is the strong light and dark contrast, which is the entire basis of a good painting.
So many times, I see beginning painters who possess good intentions, but also ignorance of the importance of a strong light/dark balance in their work. It's been said that, "without the dark, there is no light". That is absolutely true!! The darks are what make the lights "pop" and without enough contrast, the end result will be bland.
This principle does not pertain only to wooded landscapes, but EVERY artistic theme and subject. Still life, florals, portraits, whatever the subject,.......all will benefit from a good balance of contrasts.
When thinking about the lights and darks in your next painting, also consider the color "temperatures". Although it's certainly not always the case, a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is to use cooler colors in the shadows, warmer tones in the highlight areas. This will add a huge "kick" to your painting and yield a more refined, professional result.

13 comments:

Unocchio Vecchiaccio said...

Great job.... makes me want to dig out my fishing rod :-)

Ralph said...

I love this painting such atmosphere and beauty.

Wilson said...

Thanks, everyone.

Anonymous said...

Ooo!! Another beautiful painting, I love those sun rays Wilson. :) Hey! I got an email from AZ Arts and Graphics today. The gentleman who replied is in Fla. right now but said he would take a look at my blog when he gets home on the weekend. Its nice that he even took the time to reply! How have you been?

Dawn

Wilson said...

That's great, Dawn! Hey, it's a start, right? I know you must be excited!
I'm doin' fine. Been logging a lot of miles the past week, or so. My wife and I spent the week-end in the Poconos ( PA ) and I had a class in Amsterdam, NY today ( which amounted to a 12-hour day )
I think I'll sleep well tonight!
Zzzzzzzzzzzzz...........

Anonymous said...

Haha! I hope you slept well. Working hard will do that to a person :) I'll let you know of the outcome with that company! Talk to you soon.

Dawn

Unknown said...

Beautiful! The light in this painting is spectacular.

Wilson said...

Thanks, Accessory Lady!

Amy said...

Wilson, I like lots about this painting. It is hard to get a stream as believeable as you did too. I like how the light plays on things when it breaks through. I really appreciate all the tips you included in this blog post.
Take care Wilson,
Amy

Wilson said...

You're very welcome, Amy. Thanks for checking in with my blog!

Unknown said...

Excellent.Really, excellent.The sun rays are so natural and beautiful.

Wilson said...

Thank you. Check out my YouTube video lessons. It will show you how to create those sunrays.

achala nupur said...

i loved this one too....

the woods appear marvelous with the perfect blend of sunlight penetrating into it.....
the flowing water in the stream is also superbly done....

i am amazed !!....everything is "PERFECT".

YOU ROCK, Mr. WILSON !! :)
~~~