If you’re standing in front of a blank canvas, the first question is usually: "What style should I use?" Painting styles are the visual language you choose to tell a story. Some artists go for realistic detail, others splash color in a loose way. The good news is there’s no right or wrong – it’s about what feels natural to you and what you want to say.
Here are the most common groups you’ll run into. Realistic or representational painting tries to look like a photograph. Abstract art drops the exact likeness and focuses on color, shape, and feeling. Impressionism blurs edges and captures light in short brush strokes. Expressionism amps up emotion with bold colors and distorted forms. Surrealism mixes reality with dream‑like oddities. Each style has its own vibe, so you can match it to the mood you want to create.
1. Start with a simple subject – a fruit, a cup, or a single tree. This keeps the focus on technique, not composition. 2. Limit your palette. Using three to five colors forces you to think about value and contrast instead of getting lost in hue choices. 3. Choose the right medium. Oil paints give you a buttery blend that works great for realistic and impressionist work. Watercolor dries fast and is perfect for loose, transparent effects in abstract pieces. 4. Watch a short tutorial on the style you want. One‑hour videos often show the core brushwork you need to know.
When you’re ready to pick a style for a project, ask yourself two things: What story do you want to tell? And what tools feel comfortable in your hand? If you’re aiming for a calm, pastoral scene, a realistic or impressionist approach with soft brushes may work best. If you want to convey excitement or chaos, try expressionist or abstract methods with a palette knife or bold acrylic strokes.
Don’t be afraid to mix. Many modern painters blend realism with abstract backgrounds, or add surreal elements to a watercolor landscape. The result can be fresh and uniquely yours. The key is to practice each style a few times before you commit to a final piece. Sketch the same subject in three different styles and compare the feel – you’ll see what clicks.
Another practical tip is to keep a style journal. Jot down the medium, brush size, color mix, and how long a painting took. Over weeks, patterns emerge: you might notice you’re faster with acrylics in abstract work, but prefer oil for detailed portraits. This record helps you make smarter choices and saves time when you start a new canvas.
Finally, remember that the art world constantly evolves. New movements appear online, on Instagram, and in local galleries. Stay curious, follow a few artists whose style you admire, and try copying one of their pieces. Copying isn’t cheating – it’s a classic way to learn the tricks of a trade. Soon you’ll develop a hybrid style that feels authentic to you.
So, grab your brushes, pick a style that excites you, and start painting. The more you experiment, the clearer your own voice will become.
Landscape paintings capture the beauty and mood of the natural world. This article explores the three main types of landscape paintings: representational, impressionistic, and abstract. It covers their unique features, history, and tips for artists interested in creating their own landscapes. The article also includes interesting facts and insights to deepen the understanding of each style.