Haystack Rock is a geological formation off the coast of Oregon state, near Cannon Beach. Tourists flock to visit the sea stack because of its size and how close it is to the shoreline. It’s humongous! When the tide goes out, you can walk much closer and even see starfish and other sea life on and around it. It’s just another example of the beauty of the Pacific Coast.
How I Chose My Composition
My wife, Amber, and I went to visit Haystack Rock a few years ago, which is when I snapped the pictures that would serve as my reference for this painting. The weather was clear with some high-altitude clouds masking the sun slightly, resulting in beautiful colors and lighting. I took as many pictures as possible from all sorts of different angles, hoping that at least one of them would strike me as inspired when I went back through them.
One idea was to do a painting where Haystack Rock was the primary emphasis, large and in charge, looming straight down the center of the canvas. While I didn’t go in that direction, I am still intrigued by the idea and it might see the light of day, eventually. However, it just wasn’t exactly calling to me as much as a different composition – one that felt pretty unusual.
The composition that appealed to me was one that emphasized the beach, with the rock formations sitting in the distance. First of all, I think the landscape surrounding the ocean is just as beautiful as the water itself and is often far more interesting to look at. Secondly, I thought it might lend a bit more mystery to the rocks if I placed them in the distance, a bit vaguer and more removed, but present. It gives the rocks the personality that I wanted to infuse them with.
Painting the Scene
I am about the most boring color-chooser in the world. For years, I have picked the same colors over and over again for my paintings. I think you can easily see it when you look at my paintings. Until more recently I have not been the most courageous or knowledgeable color-guy. It’s only now that I’ve been studying color and light so much more, resulting in bolder choices with my paints.
This painting was a bit different for me because I built the whole thing around one color and it’s a color that comes straight from the tube. It’s one of those oddball colors that I typically don’t go for, because I have some weird thing about being traditional with my materials. I used a color called Radiant Blue from Gamblin. I thought it was some unusual pigment that was specific in some way, but recently I found out that it is essentially a combination of Titanium White and Ultramarine Blue pigments. So, now I feel less adventurous.
In any case, by emphasizing Radiant Blue, I was able to build the entire painting around it and keep myself from using too much white everywhere (something I’m prone to do). It essentially became my highlight. The sky, of course, is lighter, but that’s how I wanted it – the land a certain range of values and the sky its own.
As usual, I roughed in the major shapes of color and built up the paint over time. It helps me get a grip on my composition and have a handle on the components that build it up and make it what it is.
Legacy
I hope you enjoy the Haystack Rock painting. It has become one of my more popular paintings. My mother-in-law really loves it and purchased it from me. While it is currently on display in a showing in Seattle, it usually hangs in her living area in her home, where it can remind her of the beach.
Paintings very rarely do justice to the subjects they represent, but they do serve as nice reminders that we can use to go back in our minds to a special time. My wife and I went to Anacortes last year for her birthday. We stayed in a small and relaxing Airbnb, ate at a fantastic Italian restaurant (complete with accordion player), and spent the morning searching the local park beach for shells and colorful rocks. This view was down at one end of the beach, prompting me to take a snap of it for an eventual painting. With a little bit of imagination, I can feel the breeze and smell the salt water, reliving the peaceful moment.
Mixing colors is something that every artist has to do at some point. As an oil painter, I find it to be one of the most important elements that has to be done right to get good results with my artwork. There was a time when I was oblivious to it, then a time when I realized the significance and challenge of it. Now, I mix my colors with much more confidence, and you can, too.
I have 3 easy and strong strategies that will help you get the best results from your color mixing, whether you mix your paint before or during your painting practice. These are the most basic and effective strategies for mixing colors, so don’t be surprised if you think it sounds too simple.
You will not have to learn complicated color theory concepts. While those can be incredibly helpful in the long run, I want to help you get the most bang for your buck in the shortest amount of time. You can implement these strategies with any form of art that uses color pigment, whether it is acrylic, oil, watercolor, gouache, or any other medium that will allow for the tiny pigment particles to mingle and party together.
A quick note regarding these strategies: they can work simultaneously. However, I have divided them out into a process that prioritizes the most important elements of color. With enough practice, it won’t be long until you’re using these strategies in unison when mixing colors.
We will start by establishing the 3 central concepts that make up color. It is important to give these some good attention, because understanding them will be integral to mixing colors with confidence. Each section has tips that will expound on the simple concepts with illustrations to help guide your learning. At the end of this article, I give you a basic application of these 3 central concepts.
In art, “value” is the word that describes the lightness or darkness of a color. If I were painting a still life, the shadows would be considered darker values than the highlights, which would be lighter values. Everything we see around us can be defined by their values and there are a wide range of values that our eyes can differentiate between and identify.
Values help us recognize forms and differences between objects through “value contrast”. When one value sits next to another value, the differences are often very clear, especially if the values are widely different. Our eyes are incredibly attuned to recognizing values and the forms that they imply, as it is the main task of our rods and a secondary task of our cones to perceive those shifts in value.
Simply put, light shines into our environment, our eyes see the variations in illumination, and our brains recognize the objects around us, mostly so that we can navigate and understand our surroundings.
When we paint, it is vitally important that we first recognize the values of the subject we are painting. Many oil painters start with the darkest values and work towards the lightest over time. This technique can be very helpful for keeping our values straight and understood correctly. If we are true to the value relationships of our subject, it will become very clear what we are trying to represent. Remember, it’s those values that communicate the forms of the objects we are painting and we are trained to recognize objects through those forms. Therefore, realism relies upon those values.
Think about black and white photography. Even without any hue or color intensity, we can still understand what we are seeing. That is all thanks to value and the forms that are described by the shifts and contrasts between values.
To apply this to your painting process, you will want to practice seeing and recognizing how light or dark the color you are trying to replicate or create should be. If you are a representational painter, pay close attention to those values first, then move your mind towards the next two strategies as you are mixing colors. If you are an abstract painter and mixing colors, think about the contrasts that you will create through value.
Once the value of a color is observed, we can jump into recognizing the “hue”. Hue is just a fancy word for the basic color we are seeing. So, yellow is instantly recognized as a “yellow hue”, different from red, orange, blue, green, etc., based solely on its position in the color wheel and its essential family of hues. This is best expressed visually. Let’s look at the color wheel below.
Notice how it is divided up, with each section labeled. Those labels are the “hues”. They are defined as the family of colors that sit within a section of the color wheel or color spectrum. These labels are usually what we think of when we consider and talk about colors. I might say, “This is red and that is yellow.” You would understand what I mean without many, if any, questions.
When you are mixing colors, you will need to identify the hue that is most recognizable. A color that has no neutrality (“grayness”, “brownness”, or “muddiness”) is known to be a “pure” hue. When a color is very pure, the hue is far easier to identify. You still need to be careful and consider if the hue is between two hues or leaning in a certain direction. For instance, a red that you observe might lean towards red-orange or might lean towards red-violet. Knowing what the hue is doing will help you recognize the color of paint you should start with or what colors you should try mixing together.
Establishing a knowledge of the color wheel is indispensable. Break it down into sections. There are 3 “primary” hues: red (R), yellow (Y), and blue (B). These create the “secondary” hues: orange (R+Y), green (Y+B), and violet (R+B). “Tertiary” hues are those that reside between primaries and secondaries on the color wheel. These are yellow-orange, red-orange, red-violet, blue-violet, blue-green, and yellow-green. The 12 hues make up the basic color wheel that artists and designers often use to plan their color schemes and understand the working relationships between hues.
Once you understand hues, you will have a better time choosing what paint to use when mixing colors. For instance, if you want to mix a red-violet using a red paint and a blue paint, you will be better off starting with a more violet red (such as Quinacridone Red or Alizarin Crimson) and a more violet blue (such as Ultramarine Blue). If you were to mix an orangey red with a greenish blue your results would not gain you a vibrantly pure red-violet, but something more brown.
The above graphic shows popular and common pigments placed where they would belong on the traditional color wheel. This can help inform your decisions when selecting paints for mixing colors. Know that when you are mixing colors from pure pigments, you can guess what the results may look like by drawing a straight line between them on this graphic. The middle point on the line will be the average of the resulting mixture.
Knowing your hues makes it a lot easier for mixing colors. It also helps you communicate about color and even spot differences between similar colors, especially those that are “gray” or “brown”. A gray can be “reddish” or “blueish” or “greenish”, etc. Same with a brown or other neutral color. This will bring us into the next section.
Mixing Colors with Intensity
Colors cannot be defined only by value and hue. There is an element that speaks to the vibrancy, intensity, or chroma of a color. Intensity relates to that “pure” notion I discussed earlier. A color that is high in intensity will be very vibrant and close to its pure hue. We see that in the flowers shown above, as they radiate pure hues of red, red-orange, and yellow.
Many colors we see do not fall within easily-defined hues. They are lower in intensity and, therefore, harder to associate to a pure hue that they are derived from. These kinds of colors can be known as neutral or muted colors. What do we do with those?
When confronted with a neutral color, it is important to identify what hue the color is closest to. Then we can create a plan for mixing colors. For example, if a neutral color is reddish (often described as “warm”), we want to start there, then introduce paint colors that will bring our mixture closer to the observed color.
Muted neutral colors
There are many ways to neutralize a hue, but different approaches get different results.
If you want the neutral color to retain some of its intensity (not becoming too faded, but remaining strong in color), you need to introduce its “complement”. The complement of a hue is the hue on the opposite side of the color wheel.
As an example, red would be neutralized by green. Introducing just a little green will result in a reddish-brown. The green can either be one distinctly green pigment or the combination of pigments, such as yellows and blues. The less green we introduce, the more red our brown will be, and the more we introduce, the more green it will be. We can also try to introduce more blue or yellow, depending on if we need to pull or push the color in a different direction.
Mixing colors can feel very confusing at first! I know a lot of students that I have taught who really struggled initially to understand how to achieve certain colors with their paint. It really just takes some practice.
Faded or muted neutrals can also be mixed by introducing white, black, or gray. White lightens your hue, known as “tinting”. Black darkens the hue, known as “shading”. Gray desaturates your hue, known as “toning”. All three will lower the intensity of your colors, making them less vibrant. One of the most common painting errors is to introduce white as a brightener. However, while white does lighten, it doesn’t brighten (in the sense of increasing vibrancy).
Applying These Strategies
Now we understand the three basic characteristics of color: value, hue, and intensity. Every color is going to have some element of each characteristic.
How do we use this knowledge for mixing colors? I have a little rundown of how you might approach mixing colors to match your reference.
First, note the value. Is the color dark? Is it light? Somewhere in between?
Then, note the hue. Can you recognize any? Where does it lean? Compare it to surrounding hues.
Lastly, note the intensity. Would adding white, black, or gray result in the color? Or do you need to keep things more vibrant by mixing together complementary colors?
Soon, you will be making these judgments without even thinking too much. Your color recognition and knowledge of your pigments will increase, you will grow in confidence, and your instincts will gain a more solid and sophisticated foundation. Mixing colors will become completely natural.
Finally, I would recommend that you start painting with a limited palette, if only to understand how colors can interact. A limited palette is a simple selection of colors, usually a red, yellow, and a blue, along with white. Try different combinations (Pyrrole Red, Lemon Yellow, Ultramarine Blue; then Alizarin Crimson, Yellow Ochre, Phthalo Blue, etc.). Try switching out a pure primary with a neutral color (for instance, use red, yellow, and Payne’s gray instead of blue). You will start to learn, firsthand, how these colors interact and the color wheel will become alive in your mind.
Read more great color advice with James Gurney’s book “Color and Light”, found here.
If you’re interested in oil painting, read my invitation and encouragement to you here.
Psst. Hey. All you workaholic artists out there, let me tell you about a time I had some easy artistic inspiration without burning myself out…
When was the last time you took a break from bending over your easel and decided to go outside? Believe it or not, there’s more to life than putting paint to canvas or pencil to paper and maybe it will just get you excited to share it -visually! – with the world.
A good friend invited me on his birthday trip to Suncadia, Washington a couple of years ago. We golfed (poorly) in the sun, played some fun games, and had all sorts of great conversations. Not only that, but we went down this enormous outdoor staircase that led us to a running stream where we spent too much time skipping rocks and challenging each other’s throwing accuracy.
On our way back up the hill, I saw a beautifully simple little sight. Sunlight was filtering through the branches of a small crop of trees sitting on a tiny hill. Something about it hit me in a way that I wasn’t expecting. It spoke of lazy outdoor days, enjoying the sun’s warmth when there’s still a little chill in the air. Being without paint and unprepared to set up for a painting, I snapped a quick picture for use later. Being that I had some artistic inspiration, I was determined to paint this piece.
The reference image.
Laying Down the Right Foundation
When I arrived home I decided to set to work on the painting. I selected a small canvas (10×10 inches) that would serve to display the setting with enough detail and impact, though not overwhelm the viewer in its size. I really felt the small canvas would help to serve the simple nature of the scene, not overcomplicating things with massive presence. I also just wanted to work small.
I had been working a lot with limited palettes at the time of this painting. A limited palette is an approach to painting that encourages the artist to choose as few paints as necessary for the project. Color is very relative and this creates a framework for the artist to work simply. I chose Yellow Ochre, Burnt Sienna, and Phthalo Blue, along with a White (can’t remember if it is Titanium or Zinc) and Raw Umber. This allowed me to get a good range of colors without getting overwhelmed by a huge selection of paint options. I often use Winsor & Newton oil paint (they have a wide range of qualities that can fit any person’s budget).
Getting at it quickly was pretty important for me. I wanted to really make sure that the painting had a good amount of life to it and I truly believe that the more free a painter’s strokes are, the easier it becomes to imbue visual interest. The way we use our paintbrushes can absolutely communicate how we are feeling, in subconscious ways that even unaware viewers can perceive. It’s like talking on the phone in a good mood versus a bad mood. It can be heard in the voice, despite any of the word choice.
Using a stiff brush allowed me to get some nice textured and lively strokes on the canvas. Having that right amount of tension from the hand to the brush to the spring of the canvas imbues the painting with a personality that may not come through in just the colors and composition. I ended up being very happy with the way the preliminary layers were coming together.
Overall, I wanted to make sure that my enjoyment of the outdoors on that trip to Suncadia would come through in the painting. I always seem to work more enthusiastically when I experience the artistic inspiration that quiet and peaceful moments can provide – it would be very satisfying to communicate and share that expression with others.
Before I added more details. Maybe I could have stopped here!
Things that Did Not Work
Despite all of the early artistic successes with the piece, I didn’t know when to stop. That’s a huge learning curve for painters. Maybe it’s weird to hear an artist question their judgment on their own blog that’s part of their website where they run their business. I think it’s more important to be honest about how I was feeling regarding my work. I just didn’t know how to maintain the freshness of the painting, as I added more detail and more layers of paint.
Let this be a lesson to you! And me. I don’t think my painting is bad, by any means, but I do wonder if it could have been better if I had left it alone or been more selective with my “improvements”.
The colors were also a learning experience for me. While I am fond of the painting, I do think that some of the colors were really challenging. The thing about direct sunlight is that it can reflect off of surfaces, such as grass, and become very bright. However, in doing so, it loses a lot of the intensity of color that we hope to find in paintings. So, there’s a choice that the artist has to make, which is between adherence to realism and adherence to visual interest. I’m not sure there is a right answer, but I do wonder if I chose the correct path.
One technical thing that can add to the difficulty in painting with enough color intensity is the photo reference. Great photos are the result of a good photographer and a great edit. Cameras don’t work exactly like our eyes do, so there can often be a big difference between the way we see something in person and the way it comes to us through a photo capture. Contrast, brightness, intensity, and even perspective can be altered in a way that is just not as satisfying as what we are seeing in person.
If you are experiencing any issues like these that are getting in the way of communicating your artistic inspiration, I would recommend trying to find ways to introduce saturated and intense colors. Just try it in a few places and you might find yourself thinking entirely different about your painting. You may even be encouraged to increase the vibrancy of all your colors.
The Big Finale
The artistic inspiration came to fruition, eventually, when I put down my paint and brushes and called it. Happily, I walked away from the painting feeling like I had accomplished something decent and learned a lot along the way. That really is what I hope for most when I paint, that I will learn something. And most times, I do.
So, I added texture, color, balance, harmony, and eventually my stamp of approval. I do not think it is my greatest painting, by any means, but I do look at it occasionally and find myself studying aspects of it, with a grateful heart and a happy smile.
Here is a short series of three phases of the process. You can see how I started, began to adjust my colors, and then did some final adjustments to bring some more interest back in. Scroll back to the reference to see the changes I made, the things I de-emphasized, and the creative choices I made in a journey to simplify and economize my colors. You might also notice how my limited palette did in replicating the original colors.
While the first image in the process has a nice earthy quality to it and a good balance in the values, I do recognize the polish of the final image and how it conveys the textures and features with more crispness. I think I could balance my strokes a bit more, in hopes to keep that casual feel that is happening in the first image. I also could stand to control my use of white a bit.
So, there’s another Art Story from me, giving you a little background on one of my paintings. I’ve always enjoyed getting some behind the scenes looks at how people work and what they think of what they’ve created (warts and all). I hope you enjoyed this post and will find yourself in the midst of artistic inspiration sometimes soon.
So, you’ve got an art show coming up and you want to make sure it’s a fun and professional experience for all visitors. Maybe you’re hoping your art will make enough of an impression for some sales. Or you just want your work to be experienced to the truest degree. I’m going to walk you through the basics of getting that show ready for the public.
The first thing to figure out is what you are going to be showing. Wouldn’t be much of an art show without a selection of art to display. This process can rely on what kind of art you create and how much you’ve accomplished over recent years. Perhaps you have a series of works that are meant to go together – making this process a little easier. However, you might be doing more of a retrospective or a hodge podge of work that represents things you’ve made over the last decade or more. Or maybe you have enough recent work to fill a library, so you have to whittle down your options a little bit.
First thing, know what the goal is. If a curator is asking for specific examples of work that you have, then it won’t be as free-form as putting together an array of your work. Once you know your goal, the selections become easier. If your goal is to display lots of small intimate work, then it wouldn’t make too much sense to have large bombastic pieces everywhere. What’s the feel of your show? What do you want your viewers to leave reflecting on?
If you have a wide assortment of pieces that you just can’t decide between, it’s time to exercise those creative juices and decide upon a theme. Much like an artist might do when it comes to developing an idea from thumbnails to finish, you could break out the sketchbook and start jotting down ideas or sketching out thematic options. You will have to trust your gut when it comes to the harder choices. Remember, your work will be up for the public and you want it to be a reflection of all the things you love!
Once you have your selections, start putting it down in a list. This is going to help you wrap your head around what you’re showing. It will also give you the opportunity to title things that are not yet titled. Along with titles, you will want to put together whatever pertinent information there is for each piece, such as the dimensions, the year it was made, and the medium. If there are pieces that are on loan from any private collectors or institutions, you’ll want to indicate that by saying something like, “Courtesy of the Gallagher Family” or “Private Collection.”
This list is going to help you make sure everything has a name and set amount of information. It will build your confidence that you have what you need for the show. And it’s just a great way to compartmentalize and condense what might be an overwhelming amount of visual and mental information. Don’t put this off to the last minute because sometimes specifics can be hard to find or remember, such as dates and dimensions. This can also be a great time to start thinking about prices and placing them on the list, too.
Name that show. What is going to summarize the work? This is up to you. My tendency is to keep the name simple. My most recent show was called “Discoveries.” This felt like a nice summation of the paintings I had on display and the logic behind my work. You can name it whatever you want, though, and in your own style. Perhaps you like more information or more vagaries. This is a creative element and you should own it.
Then you should write about it. Have an artist’s statement. I’ve read many a statement and there are so many that feel overwrought, overly impressive, hard to read or understand, etc. My advice would be “keep it straightforward.” Write down the most important elements. Then read through what you’ve written and rewrite it. I would aim to read and rewrite a good handful of times. You want to tighten everything up and present the ideas as clearly, yet artistically, as possible. Most artist statements I’ve seen end up being 3-4 paragraphs on one page. You want something that won’t take up everybody’s time. You may want this artist statement printed out on a number of takeaway papers or postcards, so that people can grab one and read it on the go, rather than standing in one place, reading from the wall.
Do your works need frames? Do they need hanging wire? Do you have time to sign any of them, if they are not signed? Getting some of the missing stuff together can really help make your show feel much more professional. I recommend frames, as I think they really add to the whole experience for the viewer. Even if you go with simple framing, your paintings will benefit from that extra amount of attention and impression.
Get the hardware needed to hang. I prefer actual hanging nails that have the peg framework. These are much sturdier than just a nail in the wall. These are also known as drywall hanging nails or picture hanging nails. Using hanging wire will also help with the hanging process. The packaging usually has a nice diagram for how to attach the wire to the frame in a way that creates a nice sturdy knot.
There are many ways to hang your work. The first thing you should do, though, is place your work where you want it around the space, without hanging anything yet. Having everything arranged will help you visualize how you want the work displayed, as far as sequencing goes. Which paintings will look best next to each other?
Now it is time to decide what height you want your pieces to be. I would recommend that whatever choice you make, you continue with it throughout the show, as a formula. I prefer hanging all of the paintings along an imaginary straight line through the middle of each piece. This allows for comfortable viewing angles. I like to have the middle of the pieces sitting about 5 1/2 feet off the ground. This is an average height, so it’s comfortable for most.
The way to hang this properly is fairly simple. You need to decide upon an average height for the center (such as the aforementioned 5 1/2 feet or 66 inches). Then measure from the middle of the canvas to the point at which the nail will be pulling the hanging wire taught. Find the distance there are add it to the average height. For instance, if the distance between the center of my painting and where the nail will pull the wire taught is 10 inches, I would add it to the 66 inches. I would then put the hanging nail in the wall at 76 inches. The painting would then be placed and should hang in such a way that the middle of the painting will hit that 66 inch mark. If you are not using wire, but brackets, measure vertically from the midpoint of the painting to the brackets and make that your extra distance.
Always have a level with you to ensure the painting will hang correctly and look even on the wall. Make sure that each piece has enough space between itself and the ones next to it. Stand back from the wall for this. Imagine you are a member of the public. What distance feels correct and comfortable for viewing? Are the pieces too crowded? Would I be standing right against somebody viewing a different piece?
Having the information next to the piece is not as hard as it may sound. There are many ways to do this. A traditional way is to print out individual information on separate thick pieces of cardboard or foamboard. This can be difficult to do without the right printer, so I suggest printing on sticker paper and then either adhering it to thicker paper or applying it straight to the wall. Find a spot near the relevant piece and place it where it feels most correct. Remember, try to stay consistent throughout the entire space and with each individual piece.
Have a blurb about yourself, either on a stand or on the wall. Have some things that people can take with them, such as postcards or business cards. You can even have a price sheet, if you are interested in selling your work. If you have a reception, you can set aside a space for selling prints or other merchandise. You will most likely want somebody other than yourself to man the sales area, as you want to be present to talk about your work and chat with guests.
This little guide should be enough to get you going in the right direction or give you some options to think about. Remember that you may have to stay flexible and creative with how you display your show. Ultimately, you’re putting up some of your work for others to look at and enjoy. What is going to make that a memorable, interesting, or fun experience for them?
Take some time to enjoy the moment and relax. Congratulations on your art show!
My next post will be a primer on how to set up your own show. Today, it’s storytime.
Last fall I was asked by my friend, the wonderful illustrator and artist Rachell Sumpter, if I wanted to have a solo exhibit at the Nickerson Street Studios in Seattle. My mind raced. In an instant I was calculating how many finished pieces of artwork I had ready to show, what needed to be framed, who I could borrow my sold paintings from, and how many paintings I could conceivably go start-to-finish with in a four month window. Then I nodded and said, “Yes!”
Not Enough Paintings?
I could quickly imagine some of the work I would choose. I knew my stump painting (titled “Remnant”) would work and was handy, normally sitting parked on the wall of my living room. That had gone over well the previous year in a staff show at the Seattle Pacific University Art Center. It was really the first painting I felt confident about as a representation of my style and the direction I wanted to take my work. So, that one was an easy choice. One down.
“Remnant” 2021
I was in the midst of working on a painting of a local Shell Station, covered in snow. It was a painting that I was excited to work on and finish, mostly because the gas station is a bit of a landmark around here. I figured I could finish that one up pretty quickly.
“Snowy Shell Station” 2022
The previous year I had done a handful of plein air paintings, none of which were hugely successful in my eyes. Those weren’t really calling to me, though they were more recent work. I could take a couple from my parents’ house (a snowy pathway, a flooded field), my in-laws’ (Haystack Rock, a grassy airstrip), and a friend’s collection (a river in Fall). That would round out the work.
“Flooded Field” 2012“Haystack Rock” 2019“Fall by the River” 2019
I also had every intention of painting two more large-scale landscapes. I wasn’t able to finish either one, though I did get very close to completion on a beach rock formation. It was a whirlwind of work that I put into the pieces.
“Only Show Your Best Work”
My former professor, Laura Lasworth, always said, “Only show your best work.” She had been told that from a curator early in her life and passed that knowledge on to her students. I think it’s great advice, though it always made me unsure of what was worth showing. Over time, as my internal vision has solidified more, I can make better judgments about my paintings, choosing some over others.
I think developing your eye takes time and research. It can’t really be rushed, because it relies completely on growing your skills and carefully taking in the work of others. I’ve spent a good deal of time perusing great art and thoughtfully incorporating elements in my own work. I’ve also received enough feedback on my paintings to have a decent idea of what people respond to. And I look at my own work with a very critical eye, especially after completion, in order to spot overarching issues or problems that I need to address in future work. Developing a style is a slow and natural process that requires cognitive study and focus, as well as a desire to experiment and improve.
“Entrenched” Work in Progress
Frame Those Paintings!
I’m very fortunate to have a woodworker in the family. My dad was a cabinetmaker and carpenter for decades and has been a very reliable and generous worker who I was able to call upon for help framing my paintings. I’m telling you right now: frames are indispensable. If you have a painting on your wall and it’s not framed (maybe it’s gallery-wrapped or there is some workaround), seriously consider framing that sucker. I honestly believe it will only increase your enjoyment of the work.
My dad was working on very short notice. I was still trying to decide on the pieces I would have for the show. After talking about what pieces would be framed and the styles of frame I hoped for, he created a whole slew of beautiful frames. While there was one that I gave him specific instructions on, the others he designed himself. He made sure to ask what my thoughts were on colors, so he would end up with a frame that helped bring out the best in the paintings. I couldn’t have put together such a satisfying show without him!
“Beard’s Hollow” 2020“Snowy Path” 2019
Hanging Out
With the paintings ready to be hung, I headed down to the gallery space with my wife, Amber, and we began putting it all up. The first thing to figure out was how the pieces should be arranged. I wanted to make a big first impression and then let the space and art guide the viewers around in a logical way. To do this aspect, it helped to just place the paintings along the floor against the walls where I was planning to have them. The best decision I made was to allow each painting a bit of breathing room.
Laying the paintings out.
Once I had the paintings arranged how I wanted them, I decided on a height that I wanted the middle of each canvas to hang at. I decided on something relatively eye level – around 67 inches. The trick then, was to measure from the middle of the canvas to the point at which the hanging wire would be if it were hanging on a nail, then adding that length to 67 inches. Once I had that number, I would put a hanging nail in the wall at that height, hang the painting on it, then break out a level to make sure it sat straight. Sometimes I would want a second nail to suspend the wire on, if the painting was larger.
Getting my measurements.Hamming it up.
As I was hanging, it was becoming clearer to me which paintings would work best together and how I might need to shift the amount of paintings in any given area. I was mostly concerned with visual diversity, so the viewer would find something new to enjoy or experience as they moved from painting to painting.
“Measure twice, cut once,” my Dad, always before cutting a few more times.
Disaster Strikes!
So, with the show hung and ready for its Saturday reception, I could rest easy, knowing that all I would have to do is return with some informative stickers (title, year, medium, etc). However, Mr. Covid tapped me on the shoulder to turn around, before decking me with a right cross to the chin. And then he kicked me a few times.
The reception had to be postponed until a later date. We’re still looking forward to seeing it with friends and family. I’m going to also have prints and greeting cards available for those who enjoy the work and want a bit of it for themselves. It should end up being a fun and possibly slightly stressful time, as most receptions are!
All’s Well that Ends Well
I had a great time getting prepared for this show. Even with some of my fantastical notions about doing even more new paintings falling flat, I am happy with the paintings on display. I have already received very warm and grateful messages from those that work in the building and are happy to see some new art on their walls. It can be very easy to lose touch with how art can elevate a mood or a space when you’re standing in front of the easel, criticizing every stroke and choice. Getting those encouraging messages is a nice and well-needed dose of reality.
Maybe you’ve been at an art store and wondered about all of the different kinds of paints on display. Which one is the easiest to use? Which one makes the best paintings? What’s the difference between oil paint and acrylic paint? How would I even start oil painting?
It’s a lot to take in for somebody new to painting! And it can feel so intimidating. What do you choose and would you even be able to figure it out? You’ve heard of oil paint and its long tradition in the studios of famous artists, so would you have any chance at doing anything good with it? Maybe you’ve tried it and found it to be difficult to work with. Bob Ross makes it seem so easy!
It’s true that oil paint has a long and storied tradition in the world of painting, but much of that is because many artists over the past millennia have found it to be a flexible medium to work with. It doesn’t dry as fast as tempera (eggs) or acrylic paint, it has a mix of opacity and transparency, and, with the right approach, it can last for a very long time. I personally enjoy the feel of oil paint on my brush, the freedom in blending that it produces, and the incredible amount of versatility it offers.
First, Some Basic Knowledge
The first thing to understand about oil paint is that it is like any other paint, in that it is made up of pigments that are bound together by a binding agent. These pigments are what we see as the color of the paint. Many of the pigments come from minerals or metals that are ground up into a powder. For example, the earliest Ultramarine Blue pigments came from Lapis Lazuli, a semi-precious stone that is rare and required Italian traders to sail to Afghanistan to acquire (hence the name ultramarine). These days there are synthetic ways to produce a wide variety of beautiful colors.
The binding agent in oil paint is, you guessed it, oil. Often this is a form of linseed oil, specially crafted for painting purposes. It may also be safflower or walnut oil, among others. Some oils have a tendency to turn yellow over time, especially noticeable when mixed with white pigments. There are many studies about this that turn up complex results, so I won’t go into any of that here. Just be aware that it can happen and has been a problem for hundreds of years!
A word about the surface you paint on – it needs to be primed. This is not usually an issue, as you will probably start painting with a pre-stretched canvas from the store. These come with at least one layer of “gesso”, an all-purpose primer that creates a perfect ground for your oils. If you were to paint directly on canvas, without gesso, the oil would be difficult to work with and the canvas would eventually rot. So don’t do it!
“Oil takes a long time to dry!”
In fact, oil doesn’t exactly “dry”, but it oxidizes and sets into a semi-solid state. It often takes days to set-to-the-touch and months to fully set, becoming ready for varnishing. This is important because it gives us artists a big insight into the medium that we are using. It also explains some of the reasons why we paint differently with oil than we do with other mediums.
Oil paint’s reluctance to set quickly opens it up to easier blending and mixing of paint colors. For those familiar with acrylic, this might be a tough shift at first. Give it some time, though, and you may appreciate the added flexibility. You will also now have an opportunity to blend colors on your canvas itself, something tricky or impossible to do with other mediums.
Because the binding agent is oil, most experienced painters will employ solvents and additional oils depending on their needs. Solvents, like turpentine or odorless mineral spirits, break down the oil and leave the pigments less bound together, thinning the paint. This is often used sparingly or with great intention (and in very well-ventilated spaces! The fumes can be extremely harmful.). Additional oil mediums can do a number of things, including speeding drying time, helping the paint flow better, or adding heft to the paint for impasto textures. There are many ways to customize your oil painting experience.
The Key to Oil Painting? Fat Over Lean.
If you’ve ever seen an old oil painting, you may have noticed little cracks all throughout the surface. This can happen when the oil sets up in a way that is too brittle. The flexible canvas underneath may shrink and stretch over time and is susceptible to vibration. In many ways, cracking is difficult to prevent, but there are methods that will make your experience with oils much easier and less prone to cracking.
The best method is called painting fat-over-lean. Each successive layer of paint should have more oil introduced, making for a top-level surface that is more flexible and less pigment-heavy than lower layers. There are other reasons to add oil to your paint, like aiding pigments that are more oil-absorbent, but that is a bit advanced for this introduction. Just try to incorporate a fat-over-lean approach as you get more comfortable with the paint.
A really nice by-product of painting fat-over-lean is control over your composition and colors. Starting your painting with a thin and sketchy monochromatic (one color) first layer is referred to as doing an underpainting. This can help guide the rest of your painting, acting as a framework. As you add more detail, you can use more paint and different colors, being careful to avoid or incorporate blending as you go.
But Now I’m Having a Problem…
It is helpful to keep in mind that different paints serve different purposes. While you may be able to take some of your acrylic or watercolor skills over to oils, you will have to learn some new things. Note that even very advanced oil painters run into issues and challenges. It is only through more experience that we improve and get the results we want!
One tendency for beginners is to use way too much paint too fast. This is usually because they are used to acrylic paint. Using less paint at first and slowly building is a much better approach. It will keep you from making messes and muddying up your colors. In conjunction, you should work dark to light or start with your mid-tones before moving up or down in value. Don’t be afraid to have lot of paint on hand, just don’t go crazy with it too quickly!
Another thing I see a lot of beginners do is having way too many colors on a palette. This is a recipe for disaster as these colors will not harmonize easily. Keep it simple! Use a limited palette. Limit yourself to only using white, one red, one yellow, and one blue. See how many colors you create with just those. You will surprise yourself! If you need a place to start, go with Titanium White, Alizarin Crimson, Lemon Yellow, and Ultramarine Blue. These will combine to make so many beautiful and saturated colors. Then start experimenting with different combinations, trading out Alizarin Crimson for Burnt Sienna, Lemon Yellow for Yellow Ochre, and Ultramarine Blue for Phthalo Blue or Payne’s Gray (or even Ivory Black). Color is relative and what matters most is harmony!
Now You are Set!
There really is nothing stopping you from learning how to paint with oils now. Go pick up some small tubes of paint (go with a large tube of white) and a few brushes of different sizes and shapes. Experiment with what looks fun! To be more frugal, skip the pre-stretched canvases for now and get a pad of canvas paper. I like to use them for studies. Tape a sheet to a drawing board and you’re set!
If you’re feeling old-fashioned (like me), get a wooden palette. They are really nice for weighing your values and they hold up really well to repeat uses (as long as you clean them). Go the less expensive route with a pad of palette paper, a waxy kind of paper that works really nicely, too. I personally have used them many times and prefer them far more than plastic palettes.
And, with that, you should be very ready to begin oil painting (after you read the little bit of safety advice I have below). I hope you enjoy getting to know how to paint with oils. It really is a fantastic way to improve your abilities, your understanding of art, and your patience. Just know that nobody is born with a complete mastery of painting. You grow equal to the amount of time you put into it. Have fun!
One last word of advice: know how to clean up your paint in a healthy way.
Be aware that you cannot pour solvent down a drain or into the ground (very illegal and bad for the earth). Best to use it sparingly and let the small amount you use evaporate over time (in a well-ventilated area!), leaving whatever solids behind that you can then dispose of safely. Again, only use solvent in a well-ventilated area (I cannot say that enough!).
Oil is very flammable. A normal painting experience shouldn’t end up with any excessively oily rags or paper towels, but if you do, do not wad them up or pile them together. It should be easy to either let the paint dry enough to dispose of later or prevent yourself from ending up with a whole bunch of excess paint.
Clean your brushes with soap and warm water immediately after you are done using them. If you do not want to get too much oil paint on your hands, use gloves while painting or cleaning. Paper towels are enough for cleaning them while painting.
If you have any other safety concerns, make sure to do your research before you begin, so you can have peace of mind and enjoy the experience.
As I look out my window I can see small birds flitting through the branches of the tree outside and hear them singing their short little songs. My wife just received a bouquet of blooming pink tulips that graces our dinner table (where I’m working right now) and it brings a beautiful splash of color to everything. Spring is just over a week away and I’m already beginning to feel the inspiration it brings.
The sun is out and the ideas are percolating. Old plans are being swept up and pieced into new plans. Several new projects are underway, steadily developing and bringing me fresh excitement. There is a feeling of refreshment in the air that trumps any temporary January motivations regarding new year’s resolutions and words of the year. This is when things really start to take shape.
Am I alone? I can’t be the only person who finds this season to be so renewing. While the year can hold so many surprises, there is something about Spring that gives me the feeling that I hold potential in my hands. There is a certainty to it.
Does Spring hold that sway over you? Do you feel invigorated? Are you working on anything that makes you feel alive right now?
When is it a good time to slow down? No, I’m really asking.
This Friday I will be turning the ripe old age of 38 and I haven’t ever related more with the idea of time flying. Life is short. Here today, gone tomorrow. Insert other meaningful idioms and figures of speech here.
Officially transferring from my mid-thirties to my late-thirties means I’m not feeling so young anymore. What does all of this have to do with art and painting and being a creative person?
Filling Our Days Up
As creative people, we can often fill up our days with a variety of activities. Burgeoning artists are most likely working a regular job while pursuing their personal work. Established artists are juggling the business side of things, preparing for their next show or series. Many artists are running their lives through a custom schedule that sometimes needs tweaking. Furthermore, we live in a busy society with myriad distractions and the potential for falling behind on things. You might end up with a feeling of having to catch up on stuff, power through, go from A to B to C, or any number of important or seemingly important activities.
This takes a toll on our time, for sure, but it also does something internally. Our minds start to develop a sense of forward-thinking. We set end goals, due dates, and other measurable progress markers as helpful ways of organizing our lives. These tools enable us to succeed in our pursuits, to learn from our mistakes, and to generate a process of operating that will hopefully lead us to efficiency and results. Let’s not forget, though, that as humans we are bound to screw things up. One of the biggest regrets of people near the end of their lives is that they were too wrapped up in their work.
Are You Missing Out on the Moment?
Creative people need clear heads. And they need moments of stillness. Moving from task to task and viewing life as a series of hoops to jump through creates a game out of life. Furthermore, it creates self-focused people. When I was younger, I would look forward to going to a friend’s house to watch football or play a board game. Why do I now think of these events as interruptions? My conclusion is that I have come to value my time more than I used to. Which begs the question: am I using my time wisely?
You see, a person who values their time over sharing it with friends and family should take a good look at themselves and see how they use their time. In our day, a constant distraction in our lives is the smart phone. I’ve definitely prioritized my smart phone over seeing people or doing constructive things. Of course, I could justify it by saying that I needed the decompression that it gives. But in reality, is it actually performing any sort of decompression? Usually, because my mind never gets a break, it just adds to feeling of busyness.
Art projects, jobs, writing, making dinner, doing chores, taking transportation, checking Instagram, scrolling on Facebook, reading headlines, and everything else I fill my day with has to be taking a toll. So, what do I do about it? Find what is missing in that list and add it. Find what I don’t like and cut it. In other words, if there are things I can do to improve my quality of life, I need to identify them and make time for them.
A New List
For me, a new list would include the things that help me provide for my family. That includes work and chores. Second, I would be greatly aided by paying attention to my mental, physical, and spiritual health. For example, I can make time to read meaningful things, exercise my body, and practice stillness. These things can be overlooked because the results are not immediate – they happen over time. But what are if not our minds, bodies, and souls?
Eliminating the fat for our new list can have a tremendous effect on our well-being. For instance, cutting Facebook can lead to less mindless anger, frustration, and jealousy. You don’t have to live your life comparing yourself to everybody else. You have that kind of control!
Everything else can fall in place. The work can get done with more emphasis on quality, not desperation. Social life can begin to flourish again, no longer taking a backseat to selfish ambition. After all, it’s not good to isolate oneself. Taking a little time to make a new list will not only challenge your perspective, but also give your accomplishments more weight.
So, yeah, I’m turning 38. I’m inclined to say that it came quick, but I think it’s just surprising to consider my age. It’s not that time goes really fast, it’s that time goes at all. It’s a reminder of that. And hopefully it can encourage me to take stock of my life and express my gratitude for the many blessings I have.
One of the friends I’ve met on my art journey is an artist whose work is both instantly recognizable and endearing. Working with textures, colors, shapes, line, and smart design, Jonathan Shaw demonstrates a careful and loving approach to his artwork. Paintings are imbued with his unique vision, delving fearlessly into matters of faith, biblical history, and the person of Christ. These subjects are not new to art, having a rich history through the commissions of the church. However, in our modern world it takes a good amount of courage to embrace so fully the subject of religion, especially with the earnestness that Jonathan displays.
Besides the realm of glory, Jonathan’s art goes into wonderfully realized areas of whimsical design, with charming compositions and playful shapes and colors. His is an art that embraces imagination and creativity, being both conceptual and representative. It is always very clear that he has fun with his work, developing a visual language that easily and cheerfully communicates that fun to his audience. All of this is to say that I dig it. That’s probably clear by now.
Soft-spoken and friendly, Jonathan gives off a spark of lively spirit, being quick to smile and engage. His demeanor is often indicating his readiness to listen and enjoy others’ personalities. I was excited to learn a bit more about his process and history with his art.
Adam Kenney: Please introduce yourself.
Jonathan Shaw: My name is Jonathan Shaw and I am a freelance artist. My family had roots in the Colorado Rockies near Aspen but I was predominately raised in the Milwaukee area where I now reside with my wife, Kelsey, and our two young boys. I received my BA in Studio Art with a minor in Art History from Seattle Pacific University in 2010. I enjoy time spent with my wonderful family, mountain biking, grooving to good music, swimming in the beautiful Lake Michigan, being in the great outdoors, exploring the city, gathering with friends, and chatting about scripture.
AK: What are your primary ways of making art?
JS: I am a multidisciplinary artist who works with paint, collage, illustration and a wee bit of design work. The majority of my subject matter involves Biblical narratives and Judeo-Christian themes portrayed playfully with paint and other media.
When I was growing up, my father often traveled to a variety of foreign countries as a documentary filmmaker. I distinctly remember the time he returned from India with intricate woven rugs and blankets, carved wood jewelry boxes, and tiny painted stone animals. I was drawn to the beauty of the patterns, the aromas, and the exotic aesthetic. Experiences like this one from childhood have significantly influenced my stylized approach. Much of my work could be defined as whimsical folk art. I love incorporating patterns and symbols that poetically imbue the artwork with a meaningful message.
AK: How long have you been working with art?
JS: It’s certainly been a good long journey. I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember. My mum jokes that I drew before I spoke. I actually took speech classes with a tutor in Kindergarten and 1st grade because of my delayed verbal communication. I have always been a very meditative and visual processor which has definitely served me well as an artist. Throughout my elementary years, I faithfully drew with colored pencils in a couple of sketchbooks and as the years went on I got a taste for other media such as printmaking, collage, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, and painting.
Shortly after graduating college in Seattle in 2010, I moved back home to my family’s farm in Wisconsin and focused my time on my art practice. Honestly there wasn’t much to do other than farm work, exploring our 160 acres of fields and forests and creating artwork. Although this season only lasted a year before jumping back into the “work force,” the time has been foundational to both my faith and my creativity.
As a freelance artist, I’ve had the privilege to make my own personal body of work along with a variety of commissions from clients which has included published book illustrations, large scale murals, logo designs, websites, portraits, and collaborative projects. In summation, I’ve been selling artwork and have taken on commissions since 2010 while holding other jobs, but it wasn’t until the beginning of 2021 that I’ve done it full time.
AK: Why did you decide to make art a focus of your life?
JS: I hold a strong conviction that I was created to create. Nothing else grounds me in the present and helps me process life quite like creating art does; it’s very therapeutic for me. So after several years, I finally was able to become a full-time freelance artist. I know that if I looked back on my life and hadn’t used my creative gift to its fullest potential, I would really regret it. So here I am, pursuing my passion one step at a time.
AK: In what ways have you been changed by art?
JS: Art has taught me many valuable lessons and cultivated several beneficial practices in my life. Creating art has taught me patience, critical thinking, how to listen and observe well, and that life is a continual work in progress. Art has also allowed me to learn more about my subject matter whether that be nature, culture, or aspects of scripture.
AK: What is your primary focus when creating art?
JS: My primary focus when creating art involves a process of discovery. I tend to focus a lot on learning more about my subject matter; investigating and meditating on it. Similar to the adrenaline rush that comes from a good descent on the ski slope, creating art has an exhilarating effect for me; both in the discovery aspect and the mystery behind it. This dynamic keeps me coming back for more.
AK: What artists do you look up to or find inspiration in?
JS: I often resonate with the work of several 19th & 20th century painters such as Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Cezanne, as well as self-taught folk artists. My favorite among this group is Marc Chagall. I’m fascinated by his whimsical and colorful depictions of Biblical narratives, childhood memories, Jewish practices, and dream-like scenes. I find his work to be so poetic, imaginative and graceful.
AK: How do you stay motivated?
JS: Over the years I’ve come to learn that creating art requires balance and that art is not the end-all-be-all. I’ve discovered that when I am flourishing socially, mentally, physically, and spiritually; creativity flows more effortlessly. Just as important as a well-rounded life, restoking the creative fire through being immersed in others’ artwork is very significant for my motivation as an artist.
Likewise, morning bike rides in the warm months have been very beneficial for me. It allows me to loosen my grip on the day and release any fears that I may be harboring. Reading books on creativity is also very helpful. I’m currently working my way through “Real Artists Don’t Starve” by Jeff Goins. Throughout the year I read Julia Cameron’s daily artist devotional called “The Artist’s Way.” I highly recommend both of those reads.
A big motivation for me lately is being involved at a local gallery where I exhibit my work. It’s been so encouraging to meet other artists and to spur each other on. I am preparing for a solo-exhibition later this year which also keeps me excited and motivated. It’s encouraging to know that my artwork has and will touch people’s lives and that keeps me going.
AK: Do you have any regular rituals that help you keep your focus?
JS: A few things come to mind. Music has always played a significant role in my creative process. I find that tunes help me gain momentum and usher me into a good rhythm. Living a simple, down to earth lifestyle and being “close to the land.” This may look like taking walks with my family, tending to our garden or kayaking down the river. Every once in a while I find it helpful to look at other artists’ work; both contemporary and from the past. This endeavor provides several benefits from feeling a part of a larger community to discovering “resonating voices” that harmonize with my own work. One of my favorite ways to do this is by going to Barnes & Noble and paging through art magazines or better yet, going to a local used-book store and finding old books of artists I like.
AK: In the last year what has made the largest impact on your practice?
JS: I’d say the decision to resign as a mail carrier from the Post Office and taking steps to cultivate my art career full time. Leaving behind my postal job was a big leap of faith for me but it really allowed me to take myself and my artistic calling seriously.
Community has also played an important role for me in this season. Specifically joining an online art mentor group has done wonders; learning new skills, ways of thinking, and professional advice. Along with this online community, being involved at a local gallery and studio has made a large impact (and I mean local; the space is only three blocks north of us). It has been so encouraging to exhibit my work there and to speak with others at its open receptions. I am also currently taking steps to be an artist-in-residence at this studio gallery.
AK: Do you think there is something missing in the “art world”?
JS: Great question. I honestly haven’t thought much on this subject so my thoughts may be a tad undeveloped but I’d say maybe opportunities for up-and-coming artists to find outlets for their young careers to take flight. This could look like galleries exclusively tailored towards emerging artists, more opportunities to learn from veteran professional artists, and various apprenticeships.
AK: What would you like to see more artists do?
JS: Pursuing a creative career can definitely be difficult especially when doing it alone. I’d love to see more artists coming together to encourage and inspire one another. I’m casting a vision in my local area to gather artists to view and discuss works in progress and exhibit artwork together.
AK: Any last keys to your art practice?
JS: I would say, having a renewed mind in Christ is one of the biggest keys for me. This allows me to create out of a place of affirmation, anchoring me in the Father’s love even when discouragement and disappointments come. One way that I remind myself of this is signing my work with the Hebrew translation of my name, Yehonatan, meaning “Yahweh has given.” I consider the ability to create a wonderful gift as well as a collaborative process with my Maker. My hope is that my artwork blesses and inspires others.
One of the friends I’ve met on my art journey is an artist whose work is both instantly recognizable and endearing. Working with textures, colors, shapes, line, and smart design, Jonathan Shaw demonstrates a careful and loving approach to his artwork. Paintings are imbued with his unique vision, delving fearlessly into matters of faith, biblical history, and the person of Christ. These subjects are not new to art, having a rich history through the commissions of the church. However, in our modern world it takes a good amount of courage to embrace so fully the subject of religion, especially with the earnestness that Jonathan displays.
