4 Tips on How to Pick a Good Landscape Painting Subject
As an artist, one of the keys I use to create a captivating landscape painting is by choosing the right subject. While there is no one-size-fits-all formula for picking a good landscape painting subject, there are several creative approaches that I take.
One approach is looking for landscapes that offer a sense of contrast. This could be a contrast in colour, texture, or even mood. For example, a serene lake or river surrounded by lush green trees can be contrasted with a rocky mountain range or soaring escarpments in the distance. This creates an interesting visual dynamic that draws your eye.
Another approach is searching for landscapes that have a strong focal point. This could be a tree, a rock formation, a homestead or old shack, a windmill - the possibilities are endless! By placing this focal point off-centre, I create a more dynamic composition that brings your view into the painting.
I also look for landscapes that have a sense of depth. This can be achieved by incorporating elements such as a winding road or river (which I love!), creating a sense of distance and space in the painting. By using different shades of colour and varying the sizes of objects, I can create an illusion of depth that makes the painting feel more three-dimensional. This is particularly important, considering I am painting on a two-dimensional surface!
In addition to these techniques, I also draw inspiration from my own personal experiences and emotions. Sometimes there is a landscape that holds special meaning to me, or a place that I find particularly peaceful or inspiring. By painting these landscapes, I can infuse my artwork with a sense of personal significance that resonates with my collectors.
Ultimately, I find that the key to picking a good landscape painting subject is to approach it with a curious and exploratory mindset. I take the time to observe and appreciate the natural world around me as often as I can, and look for the details and elements that make a landscape unique and compelling. By doing this, I believe that I create landscape paintings that are beautiful, meaningful and impactful.
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If you click on any of the links above, you will be taken to the Scapes of Art online gallery and store where you can purchase one of my original Australian landscape paintings.
