Remember your course mantra for this course — “Take risks and have fun!”

I have found that choosing colors and learning to create color harmony are top questions of all students, and I’ve noticed over the years that students tend to use too many colors in their work. Often, when I look at your work, I simply remove one or two colors and the painting becomes harmonized and complete. This course starts with color. Introduction to a Notan also in this lesson.

Understanding and learning to use neutrals in our work is hugely important. Generally, the contrast of neutrals with more vibrant colors is what makes those vibrant color “sing.”

There are hundreds of ways to create contrast in our work. Some contrasts can be more conceptual such as “known vs. unknown” while others can be more technical such as “pattern vs solid.” Something like “dark vs. light” can fall into both categories. Contrast not only creates visual interest in your work but can help with problem solving and decision making.