Paint With Me: Conquer Simple Techniques for Complex Patterns
In today’s video, we’re diving into the world of complex patterns and how to simplify them for easier, more successful painting. If you've ever struggled with representational painting and felt frustrated by how difficult it can be to get your ideas onto the canvas, you're not alone. One of the main reasons painting feels overwhelming is because we’re juggling several themes at once: value, drawing, and form. And, especially when starting out, trying to handle all of these with a single brushstroke can feel impossible.
In the video, I break down a method that separates out these themes to make the process more manageable. I also briefly explain the difference between representational and abstract painting—representational art seeks to depict subjects from the real world, while abstract art focuses on shapes, colors, and textures without representing real objects. If you're working representationally, you’re likely trying to create an accurate portrayal of reality, which adds complexity to the process.
Key Themes in Representational Painting:
1. Breaking Down Value, Drawing, and Form
In my approach, I encourage focusing on two of these elements at a time. This is why I use redraw lines—acknowledging that trying to manage all three (value, drawing, and form) at once is challenging for any painter, regardless of skill level. When people start painting, they often struggle because they're trying to juggle all of this at the same time. Techniques like the grisaille method (where you paint in grayscale, focusing on value and drawing first, and then add color through glazes) can help by teasing apart these elements.
2. Value Bracketing as Bumper Lanes
Have you ever bowled with bumper lanes? They’re there to keep you from getting discouraged, ensuring you stay on track. That’s exactly how I view value bracketing in painting. By pre-mixing your darkest, lightest, and middle values before you begin, you set guardrails for yourself. This method helps you keep your painting on course, even if things start to feel difficult. Value underpins both color and form, making it one of the most important aspects to master. With value bracketing, you’ll be less likely to get discouraged because it’s a safety net that keeps you from veering too far off track.
3. Moving from General to Specific
Whether you’re just starting out or tackling a complex subject, always move from big, general forms to specific details. As your painting progresses, you’ll naturally add more complexity—whether it’s texture, color shifts, or details in fabric. By beginning with broader strokes and values, you’re laying the foundation, and the details will come easier once the big picture is established. This also applies to how you plan your paintings; deciding in advance how detailed you want to get helps set realistic expectations for yourself.
4. Patience, Planning, and Persistence
One of the key takeaways from this video is the importance of having patience and a plan. Many traditional art schools may seem to emphasize the struggle as part of the process, but I believe that being kind to yourself and developing a plan are not only more compassionate but absolutely necessary for growth—especially if you’re neurodivergent or tend to over-personalize mistakes. Patience and planning are essential tools for staying motivated and persistent in your artistic journey.
These are all themes and methods that I explore further in Not Sorry Art School. If you’re interested in developing these skills, check out my newest course, Fabric and Pattern, where we break down painting complex patterns step by step.
And for a limited time, you can use the code FABRIC for 10% off your Lifetime Access Membership. If you’re unsure whether Not Sorry Art School is right for you, you can try my 7-day free painting boot camp—a series of lessons designed to help you develop as a painter. Some of my best insights are shared in this boot camp, so take advantage of it while it’s still free!