Today we will discuss three different ways to start a painting—exploration, value block in, and a detailed line drawing.
All are acceptable. We have to find what works best for us and our subject matter. First let’s look at the method of exploration.
One benefit of exploration is you get to discover interesting paint applications along the way. This is great if you have trouble fully envisioning what you want your completed painting to look like.
Often, painters will simply indicate where major landmarks will be. In a portrait, for example, you might simply mark the location of the eyes, nose, and mouth, and then let the painting evolve from there. One downside is that it can involve lots of scraping off, layering, and trial and error.
Another option is to complete a detailed line drawing first. This can be completed free hand via sight size or other measuring method or by some means of transfer, such as a projector if you are enlarging a smaller drawing.
This process can be helpful if you are not comfortable drawing with paint. It lets you work out all the drawing details in graphite or charcoal. It can be easier to make corrections if you are more comfortable with dry media.
One downside is that once you start painting you lose your drawing. So if you make any mistakes you have to scrape off your paint or make adjustments wet into wet. It can also make a painting appear a little stiff with less confident brushwork if you are trying to remain in the lines. It also doesn’t provide good value information.
Finally we have the value block in. In this method you essentially complete most of the painting in monochrome. Like a graphite drawing, it lets you work out any issues in drawing and composition before putting on thick paint. The thin paint makes it easier to make corrections.
Unlike a line drawing, this method also provides you with value information. This can help when mixing colors, and it can minimize scraping off and trial and error.
This method works well if you are comfortable drawing with paint, but to do so, it’s helpful to have an oil ground or non absorbent acrylic primer, like the one offered by Michael Harding.
Traditional gesso is too absorbent for this technique and thus you can’t fully erase your mistakes. Oil primers enable you to wipe off paint to correct mistakes and create reductive highlights. I like the oil ground from Gamblin.
While there are certainly plenty of other ways to start a painting, these are a few of the most common, and all work rather well. The choice is yours to determine which suits your style of painting.
Do you draw with graphite or with paint? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear from you and help you on your painting journey.
Stop back tomorrow, and everyday, for more painting tips.
Stay inspired,
Bry