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One of the main topics I addressed was a common question from art students about how to paint rocks underwater. My initial response was a straightforward "you don't," which might have seemed slightly blunt. However, I explained that successful painting is about understanding fundamental principles like values, colors, and edges. It's about more than the specific subject, like underwater rocks, but these core elements.
I pointed out that focusing too much on painting underwater rocks can cause one to miss the critical components that make a painting look realistic. For example, to depict rocks under water effectively, you need to use more muted colors, softer edges, and closer-together values. I also emphasized the importance of drawing and observing how rocks appear flatter as they recede underwater.
We then broadened the discussion to painting various subjects, including trees. I advised against getting caught up in the specifics, like whether you're painting a spruce or an oak. Instead, could you focus on the shapes involved? Concentrating on basic shapes rather than the specific identity of the subject can achieve a more accurate and effective representation in your work.
Reflecting on my teaching experiences, I stressed the importance of returning to the basics of art. Many students want to dive into complex subjects, like large bouquets in still life, but I always emphasize simplifying their approach. By focusing on basic shapes and forms, you can create visually appealing arrangements that resonate more with viewers.
I also discussed how overthinking can hinder artistic progress. Instead of getting bogged down by intricate details, prioritize shapes, values, and colors. This streamlined approach can lead to more tremendous success in your artistic endeavors. I shared some personal anecdotes from my early days as an artist, revealing that I, too, was once distracted by the specific identities of animals and objects rather than focusing on their underlying shapes.
To sign up for a free webinar, check out â https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registrationâ
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website â svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/â
Instagram â www.instagram.com/svagrikart/â
Facebook â business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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Welcome back to "Concept to Canvas," and join us as we delve into the world of landscapes, colors, and techniques with expert artist insights.
In this episode, I am in the stunning White Mountains of Arizona. Amidst the green aspens and pine trees, we'll tackle the challenge of making a predominantly green landscape exciting and vibrant.
Learn how to observe and mix your own greens, avoid store-bought crutches, and leverage the changing light to add variety and depth to your paintings. Plus, get tips on the importance of painting from life and making color swatches outdoors.
To sign up for a free webinar, check out: â https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registrationâ Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!Website â svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/â Instagram â www.instagram.com/svagrikart/â Facebook â business.facebook.com/svagrikfineartâ
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Manglende episoder?
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Are you painting for excellence or just to fill a space on the wall? Often I hear students speak about having to paint in certain dimensions, but bigger isn't always better...To sign up for a free webinar, check out: â https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registrationâ Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!Website â svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/â Instagram â www.instagram.com/svagrikart/â Facebook â business.facebook.com/svagrikfineartâ
In the world of art, there's often a debate about the importance of the size of a painting versus its quality. Today, I want to delve into this topic and share some insights that might help you in your artistic journey.
Behind me, I have three paintings by Ray Roberts, Ken Backus, and Matt Smith. These are smaller pieces, roughly around 10x12 or 11x14 inches. They're not what you would call large paintings, certainly not 20x30 or 30x40 inches. Despite their size, these pieces are remarkable examples of quality art.
Often, people think they need a large painting to fill a space on a wall. But the question to ask is, are you looking for art, or just something to fill a space? Personally, I would rather see three smaller, high-quality paintings grouped together to fill a space than one large, poorly executed piece.
Always strive for quality in your paintings, regardless of size. You can certainly work on larger canvases, but remember, it's like a high jumperâthey don't start at the highest bar but gradually work their way up. Creating a large painting that is energetic and poetic is no easy feat. It requires skill, practice, and often, multiple sessions to complete.
One key to infusing energy into your paintings, regardless of size, is painting from life. This approach brings vibrancy and authenticity to your work. Tackling a large canvas in one session is challenging, even for experienced artists. It often requires bringing the piece back to the studio for further refinement, and there's nothing wrong with that.
For students and those still in the learning phase, the focus should be on mastering the medium and honing your skills. Don't be pressured into creating large works before you're ready. Instead, aim for a series of smaller, high-quality paintings. Grouping these together can create a stunning visual impact without compromising on quality.
The Size DilemmaQuality Over SizePainting from LifeStudent Perspective
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Painters are often tempted to over explain their subject by going into detail. But too many details muddies the character of the painting.
To sign up for a free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
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Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
As artists, we sometimes feel compelled to include every single detail in our work, but have you ever wondered if this might actually detract from the essence of what you're trying to convey?
Imagine painting a tree. I've seen painters meticulously depict every single leaf. But why? If you find yourself doing this, ask yourself why. I often joke with my students that there's no need to prove it's a tree by painting every leaf. We can recognize a tree from its overall shape and character.
What really matters is capturing the character of the tree. Give it a general shape, add some detail, and leave it at that. From the shape alone, we recognize it. Over-detailing can sometimes feel like shouting at the viewer, as if they wouldn't understand otherwise.
Consider a car in a painting. We all know what a car looks like. You don't need to detail every single part of it. Over-detailing can almost feel insulting to the viewer, as if they need everything spelled out for them. Instead, focus on the shape, value, and color that make the car recognizable and poetic.
Fine art isn't about illustrating every tiny detail. It's about conveying a sense of beauty and emotion. There's nothing wrong with illustrations, but fine art aims to evoke a feeling or a story without over-explanation. If you're new to painting, it's natural to want to include every detail. I did it too. But over time, you learn that the beauty often lies in simplicity.
Detailing should be like the cherry on top of a dessert â a finishing touch, not the whole focus. Some of the best landscape painters master this balance. Whether you're painting a figure, a still life, or a landscape, too much detail can overwhelm and obscure the message.
Think of it like this: if I spoke to you in an overly detailed, fast-paced manner all the time, it would be exhausting and hard to follow. The same goes for a painting. Just as a photograph might blur the background to keep the focus on the subject, a painting should guide the viewerâs eye to the important elements.
This concept isn't easy to master. It's something you need to practice and struggle through. Look at the works of great artists you admire. Often, what draws you to their work is its simplicity â not in the sense of how it was created, but in how it looks. Simplifying is one of the hardest things to do, especially in the beginning, but it's crucial.
In your next painting, focus on the general shapes, values, and colors. Leave some mystery. Let the viewer fill in the blanks. Like a well-written book that leaves you pondering, a good painting should invite the viewer to engage and imagine.
If you're struggling with this, you're not alone. It's a challenge for many artists, including myself. Keep practicing, and over time, you'll find the balance between detail and suggestion.
Thank you for reading. If you found this helpful, subscribe to my channel for more tips and insights. Visit my website for free videos, webinars, and instructional content. Happy painting!
Capturing the EssenceThe Art of SuggestionEmbrace SimplicityLeave Room for ImaginationThe Power of SuggestionPractice Makes PerfectThe Beauty of MysteryKeep Practicing
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A vital part of creativity is allowing yourself time everyday to pause and reflect. Here I discuss my philosophy of alone time and how I carve out time every day to achieve it.
To sign up for a free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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There is no right or wrong answer to this question, but you can improve how fast you paint, which is particularly important if you are a plain air painter, if you practice consistently.
To sign up for a free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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When you write a paper, the best place to begin is with an outline, an overview of what you would like to say. Similarly with painting, especially plein air painting, you ought to focus on the big ideas, the whole picture, instead of getting bogged down with one aspect of the painting.
To sign up for a free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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I get asked by the students at our academy about brushwork and how much it matters, and that answer depends on your level.
To sign up for a free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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Depending on the type of landscape you are painting, shadows in the distance may not necessarily always be lighter...
To sign up for a free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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As painters, we are all illusionists, but how ought we to go about creating the illusion of light? In this episode I offer you some ways to improve your understanding and application of light in paintings.
To sign up for this free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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After a long hiatus, we are back on the Concept to Canvas podcast with a rather unusual episode! In my recent webinar, "4 Key Mistakes to Avoid when Painting Rocks," I was asked a question regarding how to paint rocks underwater, and elaborate on my answer in this episode.
To sign up for this free webinar, check out: https://gaborsvagrik.easywebinar.live/registration
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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In this episode I discuss best practices for dealing with our short comings when producing art.
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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In this episode I discuss my favorite cameras for shooting out in the field.
For my Blog post about the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX 100 VII: https://svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/2021/5/8/sony-cyber-shot-dsc-rx-100-vii
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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One way to approach a painting is to consider what object (be it a color, person, animal, etc.) you want to be the star of your piece.
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos and more!
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook business.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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Quality should always trump quantity when it comes to painting. Perhaps working on a smaller canvas would help refine your painting skills.
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook www.facebook.com/svagrikfineart/
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While all art needs a solid foundation on which to begin, once you have the fundamentals mastered there is no limit to where your creative journey will take you.
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook www.facebook.com/svagrikfineart/
The Beginning of Art: Mastering the Basics
Art does have a beginning, and that starts with the basics. Learning foundational skills is crucial to creating high-level art. It's not just about expressing feelings; without proper technique, art would become a chaotic mess. Today, one can learn these skills from various sources, including the internet. However, itâs essential to dedicate time and effort to mastering these basics.
While art has a starting point, it has no end. This is where imagination comes into play. Each artistâs unique vision sets their work apart. When learning to paint, beginners often mimic others, focusing on understanding values and colors. As skills develop, personal expression begins to emerge. This journey of continuous improvement is endless, and each artist evolves at their own pace.
Improvement comes from seeking feedback from knowledgeable professionals who can provide honest critiques. These experts help identify areas for improvement, focusing on fundamental skills. However, the true art part comes from within the artist, and there is no end to this personal growth.
The beauty of art lies in its endless journey. Once the basics are mastered, the real adventure beginsâtapping into your inner self to create unique pieces. Itâs a process of constant evolution, and thereâs always room for growth. Reflecting on past work and seeking professional guidance can help ensure continuous improvement.
Remember, patience is key. Whether you're at the crawling stage or just starting to walk, it's okay. The important thing is to stay dedicated to learning and improving. There's no final destination in art; it's a journey of perpetual growth and discovery. Embrace this journey, and let your inner creativity shine.
The Endless Journey of CreativitySeeking Guidance and Honest CritiquesThe True Journey of ArtConclusion: Embrace the Journey
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After years of attending and teaching workshops, I often get asked the same questions and see artists struggling with the same common issues, five of which I discuss here.
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos.
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook www.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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Are you immersed in what you paint? In this episode I emphasize the importance of spending time with your subject and absorbing your surroundings.
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos.
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook www.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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Gabor contemplates on how every teacher has a unique way of presenting a subject, but cautions students against jumping around from instructor, to instructor, to instructor, and so on. Find a few instructors that really speak to you, and dive deep with them.
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos.
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook www.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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A good frame should highlight the beauty of your painting, but how much is too much when it comes to choosing the right frame?
Make sure to visit my blog for free instructional videos.
Website svagrikfineart.com/gabor-svagrik-blog/
Instagram www.instagram.com/svagrikart/
Facebook www.facebook.com/svagrikfineart
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