Gaokao Color Eight People Discuss

Author: Zheng Xiangdong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-07-01
Features:
Concept and Starting Point
Watercolor still-life painting is a form of art, not merely limited to basic exercises. Even in life drawing practice, a higher level of understanding is required. An artistic work originates from a concept, reflecting the creative spirit of art. When facing a still-life setup, one should first "read before painting," "embrace the scene with emotion," and "have the intention before the brush touches the paper." Each painter should train (sensitive observation skills) and the ability to accurately grasp the atmosphere of the painting. Since everyone perceives the still-life environment differently, the creative approach can vary with each painting. This means that concepts can be discovered and established during the creative process. Based on the current still-life, the shapes of the props and drapery (、、、、), the intensity and temperature of the colors (、、、、、、), and the overall atmosphere can be arranged to achieve a perfect artistic realm.
Composition Planning
Composition involves arranging the still-life elements in specific positions on the canvas and presenting them artistically. The key to composition is how to design it. Since the perspective of the painting may differ, the resulting scene might lack idealism or originality. The arrangement should follow the principles of balance and stability. Determine whether the painting will be in a horizontal or vertical format and combine the still-life elements—shape, color, light and shadow, horizontal and vertical lines, diagonals, and shadows—into a cohesive whole within a geometric framework (e.g., triangles, ellipses, or rhombuses). Design an inspired and engaging composition. In summary, avoid placing the main subject too large, too small, too (off-center), or too centered in the frame. Also, avoid multiple objects overlapping in the foreground. Strive for a composition that is full, abundant, harmonious, and lively.
Expression Techniques
Expression techniques are applied after establishing the concept and planning the composition, as the former relies on the latter. These techniques primarily use artistic methods to highlight the theme of the painting. When viewers interact with a painting, their gaze lingers not on individual objects but on the deeper meaning conveyed through the artist's meticulous observation, carefully arranged composition, and refined techniques in depicting the still-life's form and texture. Therefore, accurately portraying the still-life's form, texture, and color is a fundamental skill all painters must master.
Form and Structure
Understanding form and structure is crucial. It differs from the contour line, which refers to the outer edge. To capture the overall effect, one must depict the transitions of light, shadow, and color, including the interplay of surfaces and edges. The contour line, however, is simply the outer boundary. To paint the form and structure well, coordination between hand, eye, and brain is necessary, along with heightened attention and keen observation. In painting, always identify the precise position and direction of the brushstroke, capturing the object's essential characteristics.
Texture Rendering
The material, surface texture, and visual perception of the still-life's surface greatly influence the sense of color. Smooth surfaces reflect light strongly, causing colors to appear unstable and either brighter or darker than the actual object, such as glass, metal, or silk. Conversely, rough surfaces reflect light weakly, appearing uneven (textured), making the colors seem slightly darker than their original brightness. Due to their tendency to absorb light, rough textures create a distinct visual effect.