Summer 2009, offered me the opportunity to paint with many wonderful artists where I observed new ideas as well as being reminded to use tried and true techniques. I visited private studios and new galleries and even one of the oldest art clubs in this country. All in all, I came away with some basic conclusions of what makes a compelling painting that attracts our attention from across the room, drawing us to it above all others with real excitement. No matter what the style or content, there are certain criteria that must be in play to create a successful landscape rendering on a two dimensional surface.

As my friends and I walked through the annual Members Show at the Providence Art Club in Providence, RI, several paintings stood out for their lovely lighting. These artists showed their understanding of how to balance color using temperature and values to make the painting more believable in the viewers mind. No matter what type of light is being portrayed, if the values are balanced with each other they will accurately help build a believable scene. The color temperature must “read right” as well-warmer towards the front and cooler in the back is a basic rule to look out for. Subtle lighting in shadows and reflected light also must be carefully worked into the balance. The paintings that drew me in were those that used these techniques best, creating dramatic lighting whether soft or strong.

The Providence Art Club was founded in 1880 on Thomas Street making it the second oldest art club in the country after the Salmagundi Club in New York. Over the years they have expanded and improved their facility which includes a charming restaurant loaded with ambiance in the historic part of the city very near Brown University.

By Laurie Warner

Artist and Owner of Nouveau Art Gallery

http://nouveauartgallery.rubylane.com