How to Simplify a Complex Subject

James Gurney paints a blacksmith at his forge and answers questions about strategies for dealing with complexity and detail. Using watercolor and gouache, he demonstrates how he eliminates background details and uses shadows to focus attention on the important parts of the silhouette.
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[SamanthaSumstine]

You’ve made the most wonderful impact upon my artistic endeavors, James. Someday, it would be my greatest joy to meet and thank you in person. Thank you for all that you do and share with the world :)

[bluewren]

I love "a painting is finished when I can't subtract anymore". That's amazing and so correct. It flies in the face of the axiom that a painting is never finished. Some say a painting is not finished until it is gazed on by a person other than the artist, but that is not helpful if you're deciding whether or not you want to put more brush strokes on it 😂

[Blick_Art]

We're always fascinated to see when experienced painters use larger brushes on smaller works! It's worth an investment in practice so you can learn to achieve anything from broad, flooded coverage to fine detail with a larger brush without constantly reloading and switching back and forth!

[EulaliaSoderlund]

I love how you simplify complex subjects!

[noraaalt]

I’m surprised this subject isn’t talked about more in the art community - I have struggled with convicted decision making & simplification in drawing since I was little. This is so helpful!! I went through 4 years of schooling at a school you came to give a talk at & I remember learning so much from your lecture - so much that a single teacher there never mentioned. I’m glad you have a YT channel and are generous enough to offer your teachings - always happy to see a new video! && I still reference Color & Light to this day. 👌👌👌

[samrat]

At 1:35 it's absolutely amazing to see Mr Gurney dip his brush in the blob of green and spread it out on the right side of the pallet and then you notice the actual grass in the background and both colours are exactly the same. Wow!! Great eye for choosing colour Mr Gurney.

[adrianmuino]

The background sound makes the experience really inmersive.
Another great video!

[JanaYoung-iz]

Thanks for simplifying the complex material!

[Vidunder]

Bought one of your book years ago, then my sister suddenly showed an interest in painting and i gifted it to her. Yesterday I went online and ordered it again cause I miss it so much, fantastic, clear explanations and wonderful excercises. thank you<3

[hongkongtennis]

James you are a wonderful gift to the world of of art. Thanks for everything you do.

[sketch-habit]

Interestingly, the real footage already looks like a James Gurney's painting. I love your choice of subject matter, so interesting in terms of shapes, light, and color, but also so authentic about who you are and what you value. Amazing video as usual!

[josephinastover]

Love this... simplifying is such a challenge. Thank you!

[GH-zvbr]

Another wonderful painting and video, thanks James!

[northernembersoutdoors]

So so happy you're releasing videos more often, thanks very much.

[ChristinaMandy_art]

Good tips! I'm about to paint, so I'll keep them in mind! I always tend to add too many unnecessary details.

[wvulcanis]

Amazing as always. Tks a lot for your videos.

[oowaz]

Love your content James, you absolute legend

[Tragicflaw]

I've been slowly trying to get back into some art with some drawing and later this month I'm taking the plunge and finally getting myself some gouache paint.

[amiemarieart]

Amazing, your work is so perfect, you make it seem so effortless. Truly talented 👏 🙌

[AzureSymbiote]

The painting is finished when you cannot subtract from it anymore. Thank you very much!