The Three Basics of Painting

Both professional painters and paint-and-sip enthusiasts agree: So much of what makes painting beautiful is the creative journey that leads to the final product. What accounts for such diversity in pieces of art? The process itself and the outcome are always totally unique.

Whether you're looking to become this generation's Picasso or you just want to speak like a local during your next trip to the Met, we've got tips on how to trace the phases of a painting's story, and how to discover a newfound appreciation for the artistry that goes into every piece.

Research first:

Paintings that depict people, places, or things in the world are up against the scrutiny of familiarity. To paint something that exists in reality, a painter must first get to know their subject. It’s up to the artist how closely they choose to stick to what they’ve learned (if they stick to it at all), but there's no downside to doing the research before you choose to stray from reality. The next time you go to paint something that you think you know inside and out, pause and give yourself a moment to go out and observe it first. You’ll not only become a better painter yourself, but you’ll be that much more aware of intricacies in other painters’ artwork.

Draft a plan:

More often than not, the most effortless looking painting is actually the result of lots and lots of careful planning. One bold stroke in the wrong direction can shatter an entire painting's cohesiveness. It’s helpful to leave perfectionism at the door— especially when starting out—but that doesn’t mean you won’t thank yourself later if you have a rough plan in place before applying your brush to canvas. We've all learned the hard way that writing "Happy Birthday" on a poster is a task meant to be outlined first in pencil, and painting follows that same principle. Challenge yourself to imagine the first draft plan underneath a finished painting’s brushstrokes. At the very least you'll have two pieces of art to appreciate: the final product, and the painting plan from whence it came.

Start big:

Think of painting like a hot fudge sundae. Yes, you might be most excited about the toppings—a water droplet on a flower petal, a lamp glowing behind a windowpane—but that doesn’t mean the cherry and sprinkles can come before the ice cream. Start with the composition anchors, like the background and main shapes, and then work your way towards smaller finishing touches. A painting with purposeful details is by definition a painting that went through research and planning. It’s impressive and moving to see such care be taken in art, and starting big demonstrates that patience.

It's no mystery why paintings have generated interest, emotion, and intrigue for thousands of years: there's something mesmerizing about understanding the layers of composition and meaning that another artist has put into their work. The next time you paint something, follow their lead. Give yourself time to research and plan. Start big and go small. Your own art's story will be that much more meaningful if you do.