Pratique Des Arts

I’m thrilled to be featured on the cover of the French art magazine, “Pratique Des Arts.” They were very kind to ship me a magazine all the way from France. You can view the full page spreads of the lovely article below. 

The Power of A Plan

1. Every great painting is born of an equally great plan. 

2. The most important step of your work takes place before you ever begin the painting, as you clarify your vision and develop your plan. Create small thumbnail sketches as a way to focus your vision. 

Here's a little thumbnail sketch I created for a painting called, "Let There Be Light!" 

Here's a little thumbnail sketch I created for a painting called, "Let There Be Light!" 

3. With a clear vision before you, consider using an underpainting wash to efficiently chart the course for your work, and establish an overall color mood. Additionally, you can wash in complimentary colors to add some color interest to your final painting. 

Underpainting wash with alcohol for "Low Tide Sunset"

Underpainting wash with alcohol for "Low Tide Sunset"

4. Now develop and refine your vision on the surface without overworking it! The underpainting gives you a very effective way to establish the large masses of value while setting up the color. It also gives you a feel for the overall mood.  As the work progresses, ask yourself questions to assess when you are finished, Here are some questions to ask yourself:

"Where do I want the viewer's eyes to linger? Where is my darkest dark? Where is my lightest light? Are my values working as a whole? Is the dominant color warm or cool? Are my shapes simple enough? Are there edges that need softening or sharpening? Do I need any color accents to liven things up? Is there too much detail in any area? Do I need to apply any freshening marks to the painting? Are there quiet areas in the painting? Have I accomplished my vision yet?"

Keep this inner dialogue going throughout the painting process so that your work progresses intentionally and efficiently, and doesn't become labored. When your personal inventory of questions is satisfied, step away from the easel because you are done!

Low Tide Sunset pastel on Wallis Museum Grade 12 x 18" by Alain J. Picard

Low Tide Sunset pastel on Wallis Museum Grade 12 x 18" by Alain J. Picard


Capturing Light Pastel Set

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With the success of the "Capturing Light" instructional videos, I teamed up with Terry Ludwig Pastels once again to develop a sumptuous set of 14 warms and cools that pair perfectly with the DVD series. I had such fun hand selecting each color to suit this beautiful set of soft pastels. The picture below shows me engaged in the rewarding challenge of choosing just 14 perfect colors. Until now, this exclusive pastel set was only available by purchasing the Capturing Light Kit from North Light Shop. The Capturing Light Pastel Set is now available for purchase in our online store! 

Alain Picard hand-selecting pastel colors.