Learning From History

  

  

Artist: J. M. W. Turner
Landscape with Water
19th Century Master, considered a precursor to the twentieth century abstract movement.

There is more history and technique represented in this digital reproduction than I can do justice to.  The original is in London, England.  An example of a scumbling technique that this particular artist was fond of using, he seems to capture the form without being overly detailed. 

What I find interesting about this painting are:

• The limited pallet.
• It is a landscape.
• Painted on site, quickly I think.

Of course, I am not a 19th century painter; nor, do I have his background as a house painter.  He knew his materials.  

Artists and commercial painters are separated in this modern era; but, only by convention.  Honestly, I don't quite understand why.  Both professions have to clean brushes, match colors, mix paint, etc.  

Back to the subject.  

A limited pallet is capable of a huge range of effects.  I'm not buying a lot of different paints.  And, I can pay attention to form.

Landscapes are based on a set of perceptual principles, which can be extrapolated to form a personal set of rules.  It doesn't have to be a landscape painting to follow them.

Painting on site is not something I have a lot of opportunities to do.  But, it does suggest to me that painting what you see is an important activity in my development.  

Painting quickly.  I need to think about that one.  Also, paint quickly a few times.  I know helps a lot in drawing exercises.