MY DESIGN AND COMPOSITION TACTICS

Drawing. I begin with a contour drawing of a flower or several flowers and plants. I draw from life and rarely use photos now. The drawing is more of a shorthand version of the subject. It is expressive and begins a more intuitive process. I never use the drawing “as is.” I combine elements from several drawings for one composition.

Placement of main elements. I move main elements to create an asymmetrical composition. I think about where I want to place the emphasis within the rectangle or square. I think about value and where I want the darkest and lightest part of the composition to be. I usually strive to put things off center.

Fluid and expressive underpainting. I use a wide brush and apply a fluid and expressive wash of diluted fluid acrylics in the color scheme of the painting. I may use one or two. Colors. I leave open areas for quiet space in the composition.

Simplified color scheme. I choose a simplified color scheme of mostly complementary colors. My original thought is “what do I want the main color of this painting to be?” It may reflect the actual colors of the flowers or it may be totally imaginary. One color usually dominates, and I choose complements to balance.

Value and contrast. Value and contrast bring impact to a painting. I strive to begin the process with more of a concentrated and colorful underpainting. If it is too light, I have a difficult time with it. A more intense underpainting works better. I also add value in the beginning with my use of the charcoal drawing. I add depth and contrast with the drawing.