Studying color is an essential aspect of painting. All my painting life I’ve experimented with color charts as a way to increase my knowledge of color. When I’m in the field painting, this knowledge kicks into gear right when I need it.. . . read more
Have you ever noticed how art magazines, art blogs, art classes and instructional books often call bright greens “garish”? Many will suggest avoiding green paint straight from the tube, and instead will tell you to mix your own greens from blue and yellow paint for a better. . . read more
There are many reasons why a painting might catch the eye or invoke emotion—but often, it’s the color scheme that plays the biggest part. For instance, a warm color scheme in burnt sienna will probably feel somber, while a cool cobalt blue painting is more likely to convey chilling. . . read more
Today's article is a collection of reader-submitted tips, techniques, and methods for avoiding prematurely dry acrylic paint.. . . read more
Almost all colored pencil instructional books cover topics like varying pressure, burnishing, blending, edging and lifting. These techniques are great - but drawing super-realistic colored pencil artwork will take a different skill.. . . read more
Since acrylics dry quickly, you will need a strategy to keep your piles of paint wet and workable during a painting session. In addition, you also need to think about how to store your palette between sessions.. . . read more
Depending on the painting techniques used, acrylic paintings may look similar either to oil paintings OR watercolor paintings. Of course, acrylic paint can also be applied in such a way that it is clearly an acrylic painting, and not oil or watercolor.. . . read more
In nearly every aspect of life, working out the kinks by practicing beforehand will always help us “deliver the goods” when it counts - and it's no different for those of us who create art.. . . read more
In the following soft pastel demonstration I’ll be taking you through my process for painting the female figure. I hope you enjoy it!. . . read more
Today's list of resources will help anyone interested in learning about color theory (or the use of color in art) at a college level. It’s also the fourth post in my series on getting an art education for free.. . . read more