Color Theory: Aerial Perspective in Landscapes with Kimberly Varnadoe

Color Theory: Aerial Perspective in Landscapes with Kimberly Varnadoe

Aerial perspective is described as the use of gradations in color and definition to suggest distance. In addition to linear perspective, which uses parallel lines converging on the horizon to convey depth, this tool will heighten the appearance of distance in your paintings.

Leonardo Di Vinci developed the idea of aerial perspective. It relates to the Munsell color system in that colors generally get Lighter (value), Bluer (hue), and Grayer (chroma) as the space recedes into the distance.

Simply put, aerial perspective is the atmospheric distance between objects in a painting. Depending on our relationship to the objects, and the relative distance involved, this can be quite apparent. The heavier the atmosphere, the more moisture in the air, the more pronounced the effect. Lower elevations, which commonly have higher amounts of moisture in the air, are the easiest places to see the effect. Think of viewing a landscape on a rainy or foggy day. The drier the atmosphere and the higher the elevation, the less apparent it becomes.

THIS CLASS:

This class will explore the concept of aerial perspective, guiding you through color sequences you can use as a basis for creating deep space on a 2-D plane. We will work on loose color sketches/paintings in a variety of color schemes so we can experience the process and take this skill back to the studio to apply to our paintings.

All materials for acrylic painting will be provided, but if you have a favorite medium (watercolors, colored pencils, etc.) and/or brushes you would like to use, feel free to bring them.

This class is offered at a reduced price due to the generous grant from the Shallow Ford Foundation.