Evolving Artistic Style

In art classes I was taught many rules about composition, values, color theory, proportion, edges and more.  We painted realistically, applying these rules and became familiar with paints and mediums. This was a good foundation, a starting point.

Discovering and studying sculpture, I worked exclusively as a three-dimensional bronze artist for many years. The urge to paint returned because I was missing work with color, and I added realistic watercolor and oil painting to my continuing work as a sculptor.

Nurturing an Artistic Style

Great painting throughout art history teaches us that there can be feeling expressed in all styles, be it a landscape, portrait or even a still life. There was a turning point for me in painting when, with self-critique, I realized that rendering of my chosen subject matter lacked intuitive emotional intent. Currently, I choose subject matter more carefully and combine realistic form, for viewer orientation, with more abstract passages. This more personal interpretive style, which combines form and feeling is sometimes called “poetic realism.”

The imaginative, loosely painted areas capture the spirit of the subject matter while adding a bit of mystery to spark viewer imagination. Keeping in mind the overall feeling I wish the painting to convey, I simplify the scene. I paint in detail only where it is important to do so, primarily at the center of interest. Sometimes I utilize expressive linear marks, my adaptation derived from studying Asian art. As a departure from my oils and watercolors, my ink paintings are primarily linear and painted on Asian paper. They, too, are impressions, which allow for personal expression, not photorealism.

Some of the subjects that I am drawn to paint are unusual light effects, especially morning and evening light that displays a wonderful slant of light, storm clouds, rain and snow. I look for opportunities for painting moods or painting sharp value contrasts. As with my sculpture, I also like to render figures or animals in motion.

What's Your Artistic Style?

Rules of art, taught in classes, are a foundation, but a true artist, whatever his/her chosen style, must evolve and develop from this basic practical knowledge, a unique voice. Art schools do not teach personal artistic style, because they cannot. Personal style is a product of an artist’s unique way of seeing, emotionally reacting and interpreting the scene, and then painting that feeling onto paper or canvas. It is creative distillation. A personal artistic voice evolves with thought, practice, experimentation and experience over time and becomes the unique finger-print of an artist.

Happy New Year,

Elaine