The vast range of styles, approaches and emotions generated in our paintings makes the art world such a wonderful place for us to explore. It never ceases to amaze me what an exciting world we have in the arts. I mention emotions in particular, for to respond with passion and feeling is vital in whatever genre we paint. Sure, we all do ‘bread and butter’ work, as it’s not easy maintaining that level of high emotion for our most important works.
Emotion in art is often triggered by a sense of nostalgia, and one small, yet effective way of introducing this into landscape paintings is to include symbols of yesteryear, whether you are painting old sailing boats, steam locomotives, or whatever your theme may be.
In this watercolour the old county road stretches away towards the Brecon Beacons, and on the right-hand side I have included the old sign-post that still stands there. This style of sign-post is slowly disappearing from the British countryside, and it’s amazing how including just a minor element like this can evoke a marvellous sense of the past. Watch out for these little gems if you like to put across this feeling of past times in your paintings. The signpost was created with masking fluid which will give you a strong, stark edge to the feature.
This is one of several of my paintings now on display at the Ardent Gallery in the centre of Brecon, tel. 01874 610710 Pop in and treat yourself to a coffee there while you look at the Christmas show.
I really enjoy and appreciate these monthly news/fact sheets.
Trusting that some of this will rub off on my paintings. Albert
What a wonderful idea! I felt it without knowing it. I was attracted by the old posters, cables of the light, hanging clothes…., but I ‘cleaned them’ of my paintings. Now I see that they provide sentimental interest. Thank you for share your wisdom, Teacher. Respectfully, Mercedes
Hi David,
I’ve followed your blog for a while now so when looking for a painting to feature in a new post (still in draft) on country lanes I remembered you posted a few. I especially like this one as I know roughly where it is and the reference to the A40 is intriguing as I’ve travelled much of its length over the years.
May I have your permission to use this in my blog. I will of course credit you as the artist and owner of copyright and provide a link back to your site. I will also include a short description of the painting and a brief bio.
Here are some examples of posts which feature paintings by other artists work …
https://artin.artinnature.co.uk/by-a-brook-in-winter/
https://artin.artinnature.co.uk/an-ode-to-the-countryside/
https://artin.artinnature.co.uk/birds-of-the-night/
I will copy you the final draft including the picture before I publish. If you’re not happy then of course I will look for another painting to feature. But I do hope you agree.
Best Wishes
Clive