Here's an exercise you may enjoy, and learn from. Pull out one of your old plein air studies and analyze what you like and don't like about it. It's probably best if you have some distance on when you first painted it. Be very objective. Consider what you can do to strengthen the Notan pattern (the harmonious arrangement of light and dark). and how you can improve your color.
Do a few black and white Notan sketches, each no larger than 3"x3". Consider whether it's a dominantly dark or light design. Think about what you can do to enhance your focal point. Now think about your color choices. Try selecting a pre-set color plan. I chose a blue-orange complementary (orange dominant), with touches of green and purple for spice. Try to use each color in both the shadow and the light. Don't be finicky with drawing and finish. Just go for the simple notan shapes and limit yourself to your pre-set color plan. You'll be surprised at what you can learn.SYCAMORE COUPLE
©Jimmy Longacre 2014
10x8 oil on canvas panel
Jimmy Longacre
Texas impressionist landscape paintings
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