from Kenn Backhaus

Let's talk about how to manage creativity in painting, especially when creating a complete picture. Kenn Backhaus' students have shared amazing projects, showing that during learning, important things like drawing skills, color, and light need careful attention. These components are important for painting landscapes, still life, or figures.

In Essex, Massachusetts, Kenn found inspiration in a messy boat shop. He took a picture with his iPhone but realized that cameras do not always show things the way we see them. Despite smartphones' proficiency with low light, they often do not capture scenes accurately. It's crucial for artists not to rely solely on their devices but to adjust their photos to reflect the true light and color as remembered from the scene:

Adjusting photo references is a part of managing creativity. It ensures the final piece shows the inspiration felt at the start. Below is another view of the same scene. The light through the windows against the darker inside helped Kenn decide how to paint this. Choosing the right photo means thinking about the composition, lighting, and what should stand out, like the bright light against the dark areas shown below:

Creating a finished piece involves more than just taking and adjusting photos. It means choosing scenes that convey the right mood and message, and using creativity to improve reality. For example, Kenn changed the lighting and colors in his painting to highlight certain areas and draw the viewer’s eye to the intended focal points without overwhelming them with detail:

This approach isn't just about replicating a scene accurately but about interpreting it to enhance its impact. Managing creativity in painting involves a constant balance between precision and artistic freedom, allowing artists to transform everyday scenes into a more compelling story. This journey, from the first inspiration to the final touches, shows how we as artists can bring our unique visions to life.

Learn from Kenn Backhaus as he shares his expertise in plein air painting, composition, and technique. This course offers personalized guidance, critiques, and invaluable insight for your creative process: