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In today’s episode I’m going practical and talking about how to simplify your paintings, whether you work from a photo or reference or paint plein-air!
Before we get into it, here’s a quick link to my interview over at PencilKings.com – I hope you check it out 😊🙏🏼
And now – here’s the gist of the tips I share in the episode (:
1. Main Idea / Story / Message
Knowing this is the first step to simplifying the scene (and painting it in the first place!).
What attracted you to paint it? What story do you want to tell, or message you want to convey?
2. Large Shapes of Value
Focus on the LARGE shapes instead of getting lost in the details. There should be only about 5-7 of them (give or take – this isn’t perfect science 😉).
3. Seeing Simpler
Black & White – If you have trouble seeing the scene or subject in a simpler way – turn the photo black and white (to be more precise – greyscale).
This will help you see the essence of it, and the larger shapes of value. Often I’ll be surprised at just how much simpler a scene is, after it’s turned black & white.
Squinting / taking a few steps back – these can also really help. If working from a photo – take a few steps back. You’ll be left with a “simpler” version of the subject.
If working plein-air – squinting your eyes can achieve the same effect.
4. Be Confident, Bold & Have Fun!!
That’s the main thing for me, especially when working outside.
Let go! Use bold and fun brush marks! Confident really shows with watercolor. It’s sometimes better to have a bold “failure”, rather than timid “accuracy”.
At least try it – so you know how it feels (:
And this is it! I hope you enjoy this one.
And again – here’s a link to my interview over at PencilKings.com:
Liron’s Interview on PencilKings.com
Here’s where you can find me online:
Instagram – @LironYanIL
TikTok – @Liron.Yan
YouTube – Liron Yanconsky Art
LinkedIn – Liron Yanconsky
Pinterest – Liron Yanconsky
Twitter – @LironYan