The Landscape Painter's Workbook

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COLOR GROUPING

Landscape painters are explorers, especially in the realm of color where options are nearly infinite. One of the paradoxes of the artistic practice, however, is that narrowing our options often leads to better results. We use limited values to simplify value relationships and differentiate shapes. We build stronger compositions by using a limited focus that eliminates extraneous information. Limits are also helpful when working with color.

Because color can be so seductive, painters can be tempted to infuse their work with a range of hues from every part of the spectrum. But even a novice will recognize that harmony isn’t achieved by using every color. As Sir Kenneth Clark said, “All color is no color.” In fact, our paintings ...