The use of expressive color is felt to be one of the basic elements of the modern mentality, a historical necessity, beyond choice.
Henri Matisse
Color is the main way that artists express themselves. Color touches the heart. So why do so many artists focus on the study of line, shape, composition, value and think that color ‘just comes to a person’. Painting is the act of putting color on canvas or paper. How hard can that be? But to use color well to evoke feelings and emotions takes much effort and study. Many avoid teaching or studying color because it is complicated and to really understand it takes effort and that can be intimidating. Students want quick formulas and mixes to find the perfect ‘tree’, ‘sky’ or ‘flesh’ color. I have the book, Exploring Color, How to use and control color in your paintings by Nita Leland. In this book, the author presents a methodical and concentrated method of understanding color. For the next few months, my intention is to go through this book and complete all the exercises that the author presents. Then…. I want to see how my paintings have changed. Want to take this journey with me?