A quote from Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot-
“The first two things to study are first form and then values. Those two things are in my opinion the foundations of art. Color and execution add charm to the work. It seemed very serious to me to prepare a study or a painting by starting to indicate the most vigorous color values (assuming the canvas is white) and to continue by following in order until you reach the lightest value. I would give 20 gradual numbers to go from the lightest to the most vigorous color value. Then your painting or study would be established with order. This order must in no way bother the sketcher or the colorist. Always the mass, the whole, what struck us. Never lose the first impression that moved us. The sketch is then the first thing to look for. And then, color values - the relation between forms and values. Those are the foundations. After the color, finally, the execution. Do you want to do a study or a painting? First you must apply yourself to look for the form in conscience. After having made all the efforts of application, move on to values. Look for them with the mass. Conscience. A good way to achieve this: if your canvas is white, start with the most vigorous tone. Follow the order until you get to the lightest tone. "
4 comments:
What a great quote - thanks! I like your sketch too. There's a certain quality of strength in a black and white sketch or painting; weak areas can't be disguised with color! It would have been great to have this discussion with Mr. Corot ...
Hi Donna, I like that "a conversation with Mr Corot" Now that is something I would like to be part of as well. He has shared so much of his knowledge and thoughts with the painters that followed him...imagine being there!
Good on you for doing cloud studies. Fans my desire to do the same, plus more drawings.
Hi Casey, Thanks. Yes, drawing is so important. Not only does it bring understanding, but it also brings sensitivity. Draw on Casey!
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