In earlier cultures, painting was a craft performed by craftsmen, who applied paint and imagery onto a supporting surface, such as wood or canvas. A painting can also be a piece of tightly woven cloth with similar fibers stretched over a frame. In later cultures, the concept of “fine artist” developed, and painters were given the status of courtiers or scholars, and signed their designs. They often decided what subjects to paint and how they would depict them.
Painting can be realistic or abstract, naturalistic or photographic. Some paintings are even emotive and political. There are several basic elements in a painting, such as colour, tone, lines, shapes, and texture. Each of these elements contributes to the overall effect of the piece. An effective painting combines these elements in a balanced way. Listed below are the stages involved in creating a work of art. Let’s look at each step in detail.
The design of a painting is the visual format and arrangement of its visual elements. The formal organization of a painting gives it an impressive presence. The colours and placement of the principal images may be chosen according to representational or symbolic considerations. The formal interplay of shapes and colours creates visual sensations of space and volume, and can create tension and harmony in an image. Throughout this book, you will find interesting facts, illustrations, and a wealth of information.
Another important aspect of a painting is selecting a subject. Select a subject that inspires you and challenges you. Consider the color harmony and design of the subject, and choose the painting accordingly. If you can’t decide between two, try painting one and studying the other, and see which one you prefer! After all, it’s better to be good at one medium than to be average at many. You don’t need many supplies to start a painting. Using paper towels between strokes will help you to keep a clean brush.
While painting may not contribute to your physical health, it does have many positive benefits for your overall mental health. Many therapists recommend painting to their patients for this reason. The therapeutic value of creating abstract expressions promotes a healthy mental state. When you paint, you have the opportunity to release your negative feelings and gain satisfaction. The benefits of painting go far beyond the appearance of your paintings. It can even improve your self-esteem, and it’s good for your mental health!
While it is common for modern art to be a representation of a real scene, artists are increasingly ignoring the historic and aesthetic values of craft to focus more on concept. While painting has lost its historical value in the last century, it is still widely practiced by most living artists today. The 21st century has opened up many opportunities for painters to experiment with the medium and explore new artistic directions. It is a medium that’s versatile.