Summary:
As an ancient and unique form of painting, watercolor shows its unique artistic charm and value through the aesthetic expression of light and color. This article will discuss how to use the painting techniques of light and shadow, as well as color theory and color mixing techniques in the creation of watercolor painting, to achieve aesthetic expression and value communication. First of all, by capturing the characteristics of light and shadow and using contrast to enhance the sense of three-dimensionality, artists can create a more layered and three-dimensional picture effect. Secondly, by matching and contrasting colors, as well as adjusting the brightness and saturation of colors, artists can create colorful, vivid and interesting picture effects.
I. Introduction
As an ancient and vibrant art form, watercolor painting has been loved and sought after by people since ancient times. Among them, light and color, as the two core elements of watercolor painting, have a crucial impact on its aesthetic expression and value. This section will elaborate on the background and significance of studying the aesthetic expression and value of light and color in watercolor painting from the following aspects.
As a unique form of painting, watercolor painting uses water as a medium to express the picture by using the transparency and fluidity of colors, which has a unique charm and expression. However, the characteristics of watercolor painting also bring some challenges, such as how to express the effect of light and shadow, how to control the change of color, etc., which require in-depth study and practice by watercolor painters.
In modern society, people's pursuit and appreciation of artistic aesthetics are constantly improving, and watercolor painting, as a light, pure and emotionally expressive art form, has been favored by more and more people. As the core elements of watercolor painting, light and color are not only a means to express natural scenes, but also an important tool for artists to express emotions, convey ideas and arouse resonance.
At the same time, with the development of science and technology and the progress of society, people's aesthetic standards and needs for artworks have also changed, and how to combine watercolor painting as a traditional art form with contemporary society and how to attract the attention of more audiences through the expression of light and color has become an important topic in current research.
II. The basic concepts and characteristics of light and color in watercolor painting
Light and color are crucial elements in watercolor painting, and they play an important role in the visual and emotional transmission of a work of art. This section will introduce the basic concepts and characteristics of light and color in watercolor painting, and explore the relationship between them.
A. Properties and Functions of Light
Light is an electromagnetic wave with the dual properties of fluctuating and granularity. In watercolor painting, light is mainly produced by reflection, refraction, and transmission.
First, the reflection of light allows the color and texture of the surface of the object to be revealed. By mastering the angle of incidence and reflection of light, artists can accurately reproduce the light and shadow effects on the surface of objects in watercolor paintings, increasing the three-dimensional and layered sense of the picture.
Secondly, the refraction of light causes the light to deflect as it travels through different mediums. In watercolor painting, when light passes through transparent objects (such as glass, water, etc.), due to the existence of refraction phenomena, the color changes and distortions, and the artist can take advantage of this feature to express a unique effect of light and color.
Finally, the transmission of light allows light to penetrate transparent or translucent objects. In watercolor painting, the artist can use transparent color overlay and overlay, by adjusting the concentration of pigment and the number of layers smeared, to create a rich variety of light and color effects, making the picture more vivid and gorgeous.
B. Composition and expression of color
Color is determined by the wavelength and intensity of light and is the result of the human eye's perception of different wavelengths of light. In watercolor painting, the composition of color mainly consists of three elements: hue, lightness, and saturation.
Hue is the basic property of color and is used to describe the kind of color, such as red, blue, yellow, etc. In watercolor, the artist expresses a variety of hue variations through the choice of different pigments and blending techniques to achieve visual appeal and emotional expression.
Brightness is the brightness or darkness of a color and is used to describe how bright or dark a color is. In watercolor painting, by adjusting the shade of the pigment and employing different brushstrokes and color techniques, the artist can express colors of different brightness, creating the effect of alternating light and dark and changing light and shadow.
Saturation is the purity or intensity of a color and is used to describe how vivid a color is. In watercolor, by adjusting the thickness of the pigment, using the transparency of the pigment, and using the technique of wetting and drying, the artist can express the color effect of different saturations, creating a rich color gradation and texture.
C. The relationship between light and color in watercolor painting
Light and color are inseparable in watercolor painting, interacting with each other to create the visual effect and expressiveness of the picture.
First of all, the effect of light and shadow is expressed through the change of light and shade of color. The exposure of light will make some parts brighter and others darker. By using the relationship between light and color, the artist skillfully controls and expresses the distribution and intensity of light in the picture, creating a sense of alternation of light and dark and layering, making the picture more vivid and three-dimensional.
Secondly, light and color work together to express the material and texture of the object. Different materials and the smoothness and roughness of the surface of the object will have an impact on the reflection and refraction of light, thus affecting the performance of color. By simulating the reflection and refraction of light, artists can use different colors and brushstrokes to express the texture of objects, enhancing the realism and ornamentation of the picture.
Finally, light and color create the atmosphere and emotion of the picture. Different lights and colors can convey different emotions and artistic conceptions, bringing different feelings and experiences to the viewer. Artists can shape the atmosphere of the picture by choosing specific light and color, express their emotions and opinions, and arouse empathy and thinking in the viewer.
III. The formal expression of light and color in watercolor
Light and color are not only visual elements in watercolor painting, but also directly affect the formal expression of the work, including the shaping of the layering of light and shade, the influence of color saturation on emotional expression, and the contrast of light and color on the creation of visual impact.
A. The light and shade of light and the layering of watercolor
The lightness and shade of light is one of the key factors in creating a sense of layering in watercolors. Through the rational use of the brightness and contrast of colors, the artist makes different parts of the picture produce chiaroscuro, so as to present a sense of three-dimensionality and depth.
In watercolor painting, by adjusting the light and shade of the color, it is possible to express the distance, size, and three-dimensionality of the object. For example, by adding bright colors and details to the foreground and using dull colors and blurry brushstrokes in the background, you can make the foreground stand out more and the background farther away, resulting in a clear foreground and blurred background.
In addition, the brightness and darkness of light can also be used to emphasize the important points and themes in the picture. By intensifying the light on the subject, the subject part presents bright and rich colors, and the surrounding environment is set to be dull or blurred, which can effectively attract the viewer's attention and highlight the theme and emotional expression of the work.
B. The saturation of color and the emotional expression of watercolor painting
The saturation of colors is one of the important means of expressing mood and emotion in watercolor painting. Different color saturations can convey different moods and atmospheres, which can affect the viewer's feelings and experiences.
In watercolor painting, the use of highly saturated colors can create a lively and bright atmosphere, making the work full of vitality and vitality. For example, the use of bright reds, oranges, and yellows can express warm sunlight and a cheerful atmosphere, making the viewer feel happy and comfortable.
On the contrary, the use of low-saturation colors can create a calm, oppressive atmosphere, making the work appear calm and deep. For example, the use of gray, blue, and green can convey cloudy weather and a somber mood, allowing the viewer to feel contemplative and contemplative.
In addition, by adjusting the saturation and contrast of different colors, artists can also express complex and varied emotions and moods. For example, by combining warm colors with high saturation and cool colors with low saturation, it is possible to create images full of tension and contrast, which resonate and think about the viewer.
C. The contrast of light and color and the visual impact of watercolor
The contrast of light and color is one of the important factors that produce visual impact in watercolor painting. By using contrasting colors and contrasting light and shade, the artist makes the elements in the picture more prominent and eye-catching, enhancing the visual appeal and expressiveness of the work.
In watercolor, the use of contrasting colors creates a strong visual contrast that captures the viewer's attention. For example, matching complementary colors (such as red, green, blue and orange) or contrasting colors (such as black and white) can make the colors in the picture more full and vivid, and increase the visual impact and expressiveness of the work.
In addition, the use of contrasting light and dark can also produce a strong visual contrast, making the three-dimensional sense in the picture more prominent. For example, by setting a dull part next to the bright part, or a bright part next to the dark part, you can make the objects in the picture more three-dimensional and three-dimensional, and increase the sense of layering and three-dimensionality of the work.
IV. The thematic expression of light and color in watercolor painting
A. Representation of light and color in natural landscapes
Natural landscapes are one of the common themes in watercolor paintings, and light and color play a crucial role in the representation of natural landscapes. The change of light and the richness of colors allow the artist to present the magnificent scenes and changing atmospheres of nature.
In natural landscapes, the change of light creates a variety of light and shadow effects, such as the soft light of the morning light, the intense light of the midday, the afterglow of the sunset, etc. These changes in light not only affect the light and dark contrast of objects and the saturation of colors, but also bring different emotions and atmospheres. For example, the soft light of the morning sun can create a calm and warm atmosphere, while the afterglow of the sunset can bring a sense of romance and mystery.
At the same time, the expression of color in the natural landscape is also diverse. Depending on the season, the region and the weather conditions, the colors of nature will show a variety of colors. For example, the fresh green of spring, the bright sun of summer, the golden yellow of autumn, and the silver white of winter, each color has a unique beauty and expressiveness.
B. The shaping of the human figure by light and color
Figure painting is one of the common subjects in watercolor painting, and light and color play a crucial role in the shaping of the figure. Through the rational use of light and color, artists can express the form, emotion and temperament of the figures.
The direction and intensity of light have a direct impact on the creation of the character. For example, by shining light on a character from the side, it is possible to create a clear chiaroscuro contrast that highlights the silhouette and three-dimensionality of the figure, while by shining light on the figure from behind, it can create a silhouette effect that adds a sense of mystery and artistry to the figure.
The choice and use of color is also one of the important factors in shaping the image of the character. The use of different colors can convey different emotions and atmospheres. For example, warm colors can express the enthusiasm and vitality of the character, while cool colors can express the calmness and depth of the character.
C. The imagery of light and color in still life painting
Still life painting is one of the common themes in watercolor painting, and light and color play an important role in the presentation of imagery in still life painting. Through the judicious use of light and color, artists can express the form, texture and emotion of still life.
The angle and intensity of the light has a direct impact on the performance of the still life. For example, shining light on a still life from above can produce a clear chiaroscuro and highlight the three-dimensional sense and texture of the still life, while shining light on the still life from the side can produce a soft light and shadow effect, adding to the gentleness and softness of the still life image.
The selection and use of color is also one of the important means to express the image of still life. The combination of different colors can convey different emotions and atmospheres. For example, bright colors can make a still life vibrant and vibrant, while dull colors can make a still life appear calm and deep.
V. The viewer's experience and emotional resonance of light and color on watercolor painting
A. The aesthetic appeal and aesthetic pleasure of light and color
The use of light and color in watercolor painting often brings a strong aesthetic attraction and pleasure to the viewer. The brightness and shade of light and the richness of colors create a rich variety of picture effects, so that the viewer can enjoy the beauty from it.
First of all, the change of light and shade can create a rich light and shadow effect in watercolor painting, adding a sense of layering and three-dimensionality to the picture. The viewer can appreciate the alternation of light and dark produced by the projection and reflection of light, and thus feel the texture and form of the objects in the picture. This change of light and shade is visually challenging, while also adding to the fun and appeal of the view.
Secondly, the richness of color injects a vivid and vivid visual effect into the watercolor painting. Watercolorists use different hues, light and dark changes in color, and contrasts of colors to express the rich colors of natural landscapes, human figures, or still lifes. The richness of these colors allows the viewer to feel the emotion and atmosphere conveyed by the painting, thus multiplying the pleasure and appeal of viewing.
B. The emotional expression of light and color resonates with the viewer's emotions
The use of light and color in watercolors is not only for aesthetic effect, but more importantly for their ability to convey emotions and resonate with the viewer. When the viewer appreciates the watercolor painting, by perceiving the light and color presented in the painting, it often resonates with the emotion conveyed by the painting, and then triggers the viewer's deep emotional experience.
The change of light and the choice of color can convey different emotions and atmospheres. For example, bright sunlight and warm tones often give people feelings of joy and warmth, while dark light and cool tones often give people a sense of melancholy and calm. When the viewer appreciates the watercolor painting, he or she often triggers a corresponding emotional experience because of the emotion conveyed by the painting, and resonates with the painting.
C. The influence of light and color on the perception and experience of the viewer
Light and color have a clear impact on the viewer's perception and experience in watercolor paintings. Through the rational use of the relationship between light and color, the artist can guide the viewer's gaze and highlight the focus and theme of the picture, thereby strengthening the viewer's perception and understanding of the painting.
First of all, the use of light and color can guide the viewer's gaze and create an appropriate flow in the picture. By skillfully arranging the direction of light and the contrast of light and dark colors, the artist can guide the viewer's gaze to wander through the picture, so that he can have a more comprehensive perception and experience of the details in the picture.
Secondly, the use of light and color can highlight the focus and theme of the picture and attract the attention of the viewer. By using chiaroscuro and saturation changes in color, artists can highlight key elements in the picture, making them the focal point of the picture. When the viewer appreciates the watercolor painting, it is often because of these prominent elements that the viewer has a deeper perception and experience.
VI. Techniques and practices of light and color in watercolor painting
A. Painting techniques using light and shadow
In watercolour, the effective use of light and shadow is a crucial part of the creative process. The change of light can give the picture more layers and three-dimensionality, while the shadows can add depth and expressiveness to the picture.
Capture the characteristics of light and shadow: When creating watercolor paintings, artists need to carefully observe and capture the characteristics of light and shadow. The position and intensity of the light source affect the brightness and darkness of the surface of an object, so it is important to accurately represent the projection and reflection of light in the image.
Use contrast to enhance the sense of dimension: The use of chiaroscuro in the frame can enhance the three-dimensional effect of an object. By adding more color and detail to the areas where the light hits, and reducing the shading and detailing in the shadows, you can make the object more three-dimensional.
Use of gradient colors: The use of gradient colors to express the transition effect of light and shadow is a common technique in watercolor painting. By gradually adjusting the brightness and saturation of colors, you can create natural and smooth light and shadow effects, making the picture more vivid and realistic.
B. Apply color theory and toning techniques
In addition to light and shadow, the use of color is also a crucial part of watercolor painting. Artists need to master color theory and color grading techniques in order to create a rich and colorful picture.
Color matching and contrast: In watercolor, the artist can create a colorful picture effect by skillfully matching and contrasting different colors. For example, use complementary or contrasting colors to enhance the vividness and impact of colors.
Brightness and saturation of colors: The brightness and saturation of colors have a significant impact on the visual effect of a picture. Properly adjusting the brightness and saturation of colors can make the picture more vivid and interesting, and enhance the attractiveness of viewing.
Layering: Creating depth and three-dimensionality through the layering of colors in the picture is also an important technique in the creation of watercolor painting. By adding colors with different brightness and saturation to the picture, you can make the picture richer and more diverse, and increase the pleasure of viewing.
C. Watercolorists' creative experience and practice sharing
Watercolor painters have accumulated rich experience and skills in their long-term creative practice, and some of these experiences are worth sharing and learning from.
Be diligent in observation and practice: Watercolor painting requires the artist to have a keen sense of observation and good drawing skills. Therefore, diligent observation of light, shadow and color changes in the natural world, and continuous practice and practice are important ways to improve watercolor painting skills.
Dare to experiment and innovate: Watercolor, as a free and open art form, encourages artists to experiment and innovate. In the creative process, artists can constantly explore new ways of expression and techniques, thereby enriching their creative style.
Be patient and persistent: Watercolor painting requires a lot of patience and perseverance on the part of the artist. Due to the peculiarity of watercolor painting, the artist needs to constantly wait for the paint to dry and the transparent layer to be superimposed during the creative process, so he needs to have the quality of patient waiting.
To sum up, the use of light and shadow painting techniques, color theory and color mixing techniques, as well as the creative experience and practice sharing of watercolor painters are the key to improving the level of watercolor painting. Through continuous learning and practice, artists can master these skills and experiences, so as to create more colorful and expressive watercolor paintings.
Author: Lu Xilin
Bibliography:
Fenner, C., & Seymour, P. (2003). Watercolor Unleashed: New Directions for Traditional Painting Techniques. Watson-Guptill.
Hill, R. (2012). Watercolor Painting: A Comprehensive Approach to Mastering the Medium. Dover Publications.
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