“Improve Your Art By Looking At Other Artist’s Paintings”

By Michael Dale

When I was young and first started painting, all I wanted to do was paint. I wasn’t interested in what anybody else said and didn’t give a thought to how it could be done. I didn’t care about art history… the only thing I wanted to do was pick up a brush, mix color and create a masterpiece of Art.

Does any of this sound familiar? It some ways… “It should!”

It is good to ignore everything that distracts you from your aim to learn to paint...

You are determined that nothing will stop you.
Nobody will prevent you painting a canvas in your own style.

However, unless you are fortunate it can be hard to paint like a master artist. It is likely that, as a beginner, you will produce nothing better than an amateur looking splodge. And, as a good artist, it can be difficult to make the leap from mediocre levels of artwork to professional quality standards.

There are times when you need to learn from other artists. One of the best ways to do this is to visit an art gallery and take time to look at a painting you admire…

Examine the brushwork… see where the paint is laid on thin
compare the areas where thick paint is used
Look where there is texture

In a single painting you can find plenty that will help you to improve your painting standards…

Study the colors used
Consider how the color intensity has been softened by adding white
See where thin color glazes have been used to change color tone

Most importantly, take time to understand what makes your favorite painting interesting…

Is it the design of the picture
Is there activity and movement
Are there shapes that give balance

By all means be determined and focused on producing your best artwork but don’t ignore the qualities of other artist’s paintings… you could learn how to paint better pictures.

Michael Dale is the author of 1- Color Is Best (the quick and easy way to learn to paint watercolor) and 3- Colors Are All You Need (mix any color you want fast using only 3 colors). Contact http://www.Paint-And-Draw.com to find out more.

If you haven't done so already, why not take a look at the video that features some of Michael Dale's latest watercolor paintings at... Amazing Colors

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