ART FOUNDATION and COLOUR MIXING

You are studying Art Foundation because you want to make your career in art.  You want to earn a living from your artwork and in order to do that you want to stand out from all the other people who want to do the same.  So how can you do that.  Read on ……

EXCEPTIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP and ART FOUNDATION

Whatever your style, exceptional craftsmanship is absolutely vital for a career in art. It serves as the foundation upon which an artist’s creative vision takes form and flourishes. Meticulous attention to detail, precision, and dedication to honing one’s skills in art are vital.  Crafting colours, shapes, and textures.  This is what distinguishes a true artist from the rest. Mastery of techniques such as brushwork, composition, shading, and the harmonious blending of colours enables artists to breathe life into their creations.  Thus evoking emotions and narratives that resonate with viewers on a profound level. 

A dedicated commitment to craftsmanship ensures that an artist’s work stands the test of time.  You will be leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come. In the world of art, exceptional craftsmanship isn’t just a choice.  Craftsmanship is the bedrock upon which artistic brilliance is built.  You will transform mere colours into captivating masterpieces.





RIGHT:  Emerging artist Hyangmok Baik.

Courtesy of the Instagram account art4interiors_nyc

Art Foundation

COLOUR MIXING FOR PAINTERS and ART FOUNDATION

Learning about colour mixing is absolutely vital for anyone wanting to properly learn how to paint. Understanding how different colours interact and blend is akin to acquiring a painter’s superpower. It unlocks a world of creative possibilities, enabling artists to achieve the precise hues and shades they envision.

Mastery of color mixing empowers artists to control the mood, atmosphere, and depth in their artwork with finesse.  It allows for realistic representations or imaginative, vivid creations.  Confident colour mixing is the foundation of creating harmony and balance in a painting.  It ensures that every brushstroke contributes to the overall visual impact. Without a solid grasp of colour mixing, an artist may struggle to achieve their desired results.  This leads to frustration and limitations in their artistic expression.

In essence, learning the art of colour mixing is akin to learning the language of painting, an essential skill that paves the way for artistic excellence and boundless creativity on the canvas.

For more information, please see my blog post on Colour Mixing for Artists and Aspiring Artists.  CLICK HERE.

UNLEASHING CREATIVITY and ART FOUNDATION

Back before the 1950s British food had a very poor reputation.  This was because we were limited in our ingredients and therefore limited in our culinary vision.  Gradually, new ingredients came into use; garlic, coriander, lime, chilli and more recently herbs and spices such as sumac and zatar. 

Being confident in the ability to mix hundreds of different colours for painting is akin to a chef having access to a wide array of interesting ingredients. It expands an artist’s palette, transforming them from a limited selection of basic colours to a virtuoso capable of conjuring a rich spectrum of hues. This proficiency opens up a world of creative opportunities, much like a chef’s access to exotic spices and unique ingredients can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

With an extensive knowledge of colour mixing, an artist can create nuanced and captivating artworks that resonate with depth and emotion, just as a skilled chef can craft intricate flavors that delight the palate. It’s a skill that not only enhances the visual impact of a painting but also adds layers of complexity and intrigue to the artist’s storytelling. Just as a chef’s mastery of ingredients sets them apart, an artist’s confidence in mixing colours is the key to unlocking the full potential of their creative expression.  Don’t limit your creativity by not being able to mix the colours that you want to mix.

PASSION, GRIT AND DETERMINATION

Grit and determination, much like those displayed by Sir Randolph Fiennes, are invaluable attributes. They significantly contribute to the achievement of an artist’s goals. Just as Sir Fiennes conquered the harshest environments on Earth through unwavering resolve, artists face their own daunting challenges in the pursuit of their creative visions.

The creative process can be arduous.  It can be filled with self-doubt, setbacks, and the need to continually refine one’s skills. It is this very determination that enables artists to push through obstacles and learn from failures to persistently refine their craft. Much like Sir Fiennes’ expeditions required meticulous planning and perseverance, artists must embrace the same qualities to overcome artistic hurdles and achieve their goals.

Whether it’s mastering a difficult technique, completing a monumental project, or breaking through artistic boundaries, grit and determination, inspired by individuals like Sir Randolph Fiennes, serve as the driving force that propels artists toward realizing their artistic aspirations.

'BE ON TIME AND DON'T BE AN ASS' Dame Helen Mirren

When Dame Helen Mirren was presented with a lifetime achievement award for acting by Kate Winslet and Cate Blanchett, she said ‘But honestly, any achievement that I’ve succeeded in is the result of my mantra: be on time and don’t be an ass.’  The same applies in art.  Be professional, be polite, be respectful of other people’s time and commitment.  Add your talent, flair and unique artwork on top of those strong foundations.

BE HUMBLE and LEARN

Being humble and continually learning within your chosen craft is an essential aspect of artistic growth and excellence. Humility fosters an open-minded approach that acknowledges there’s always room for improvement.  No matter how accomplished you become, embrace the idea that you don’t have all the answers.  This allows you to remain receptive to new techniques, ideas, and perspectives. This willingness to learn not only keeps your skills sharp but also fosters a sense of curiosity. Innovation then driving you to explore uncharted territories within your art form. The best artists understand that mastery is a journey, not a destination. Every day presents an opportunity to refine and expand their abilities. By remaining humble and committed to continuous learning, you not only enrich your craft but also contribute to your own artistic evolution and the broader creative community.

RIGHT: Such wise words from artist Sir Anthony Eyton RA.  Clip courtesy of Browse and Darby.

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