from Colley Whisson

Where you place certain colors in your painting can dramatically change how the viewer perceives your work. For instance, using bright colors in the foreground can draw attention and create a focal point, while softer, less saturated colors in the background can give a sense of depth and distance. This  helps create a more dynamic and visually appealing composition.

Colley finds a good balance of color in his painting below. He uses yellow to highlight shapes rather than making it the main color. He also added a bit more blue in the sky, which makes the painting look clear and balanced. This shows how important it is to not only use certain colors. but also to mix them well to create harmony in the painting.

One of the main points Colley emphasizes to his students is the importance of understanding how colors interact with each other. Primary colors—blue, red, and yellow—are the foundation of any color palette. Each of these colors has its own unique properties and can be used to create a wide range of other colors. For example, yellow is the first color to disappear in the distance, which is why things far away often appear blue. This can help us decide how much of each color to use in different areas of our paintings.

In addition to understanding color interactions, Colley places great importance on continuous learning and experimentation. He believes that every painting is an opportunity to learn something new about color and improve one’s skills. He encourages his students to try new techniques, experiment with different color combinations, and not be afraid to make mistakes. The journey of discovering and mastering color is a never-ending process that should be enjoyed.

By understanding the properties of primary colors, balancing saturation, placing colors strategically, and experimenting with different combinations, we as artists can create more dynamic and compelling artworks. This journey in painting is all about learning and growing with every brushstroke. 

Colley's guidance helps artists at any level to grow, experiment without fear, and enjoy the journey of artistic discovery. Join Colley below: