The application of flat coating technique in background drawing
The flat coating technique is a fundamental and commonly used method in oil painting creation. By evenly applying paint on the canvas, it forms smooth and flat color blocks, which are often used for background painting. The following is an analysis of the advantages of flat coating techniques in background drawing, specific operation points, and application methods combined with different styles:
First, the advantages of the flat coating technique in background painting
Create a simple atmosphere
The flat coating technique can quickly cover the background area, avoiding the visual interference caused by complex brushstrokes and textures, making the main subject of the picture more prominent. For instance, in still life paintings, using the flat coating technique to create a solid-color background can draw the viewer’s attention to the still life itself, creating a simple and pure visual effect.
In some abstract paintings, the flat background can become an important component of the picture’s color and form, forming a sharp contrast with the main elements and enhancing the visual impact of the picture.
Show a smooth texture
The flat coating technique can well represent the texture of smooth and flat surfaces of objects, such as glass, metal, water surfaces, etc. When creating paintings with these objects as the theme, applying a flat background can complement them and enhance the overall texture expression. For instance, when painting a still life with a glass vase as the theme, using the flat coating technique to create the background can highlight the transparency and smooth texture of the glass vase.
Unify the color tone of the picture
By using the flat coating technique, the color and lightness of the background can be easily controlled, making the tone of the picture more unified and harmonious. During the creative process, painters can choose appropriate colors for flat application based on the needs of the theme and emotional expression, setting the tone for the entire picture. For instance, when creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere, one can choose cool tones such as light blue or light green for flat application. When creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere, warm tones such as red and orange can be chosen.
Second, the specific operational points of the flat coating technique in background drawing
Pigment blending
When mixing pigments, it is necessary to ensure that the pigments have appropriate viscosity and fluidity. If the pigment is too thin, it will flow and it will be difficult to form uniform color blocks. If the paint is too thick, it will be difficult to apply and leave brushstroke marks. The consistency of the pigment can be adjusted by adding an appropriate amount of tinting oil or turpentine as needed.
The choice of color should be in harmony with the overall tone of the picture, and at the same time, the color contrast between the background and the main subject should be taken into consideration. Generally speaking, the background color should be slightly lighter or darker than the main subject color to highlight it.
Tool selection
Wide brush: Suitable for large areas of flat coating, it can quickly and evenly spread the paint. When using it, pay attention to controlling the force and direction of the brush to avoid brush marks.
Roller: For particularly large area background painting, a roller is a good choice. It can apply paint more quickly, making the background flatter. However, when using the roller, pay attention to the even distribution of the pigment to avoid color differences.
Application method
When applying paint, it should be done in a certain direction and sequence, such as from top to bottom, from left to right, etc., to ensure the flatness of the background. The cross-application method can be adopted, that is, apply it horizontally once and then vertically once. This can make the paint more evenly distributed on the canvas.
During the application process, pay attention to the handling of the edges to ensure a natural transition between the background and the main subject. You can use a smaller brush or sponge to gently wipe the edges to blend them with the main color.
Drying and correction
After the flat coating is completed, wait until the pigment is completely dry before proceeding to the next step of painting. During the drying process, it is important to avoid dust and debris falling onto the screen.
If uneven or unevenly colored areas are found in the background, they can be corrected after the pigment has dried. Use the same paint as the background color and apply and adjust the local areas with a fine brush or sponge.
Third, the combined application of flat coating techniques and background drawing of different styles
Realistic style
In realistic oil paintings, the flat coating technique is often used to depict a simple background to highlight the subject. For instance, in portrait paintings, the flat coating technique is used to create a solid or gradient background, making the figure stand out more prominently. At the same time, through subtle color changes and light and shadow effects, the flat-coated background can also have a certain sense of three-dimensionality and space.
When painting landscapes, the flat coating technique can be used to depict large flat areas such as the sky and water surface. Through precise color matching and application techniques, the sky and water surface present true colors and textures.
Decorative style
Decorative style oil paintings emphasize the contrast of colors and the exaggeration of forms. The flat coating technique can well meet this demand. In the background painting of decorative styles, bright and strongly contrasting colors can be used for flat coating to create a lively and cheerful atmosphere.
The decorative effect of the picture can be enhanced by patterning the background, such as drawing geometric shapes or floral patterns. The flat coating technique can make these patterns more regular and clear, forming a sharp contrast with the main elements.
Abstract style
In abstract style oil paintings, the flat coating technique is an important means of expressing color and form. Painters can freely use various colors and shapes for flat coating to create unique visual effects. For instance, through large areas of flat coating and the collision of colors, one can express inner emotions and thoughts.
The flat coating technique can also be combined with other abstract expression methods, such as dripping and splashing, to make the picture more rich and diverse. In abstract background drawing, flat color blocks can serve as the basic elements of the picture, complementing other expression techniques and jointly constructing a unique artistic world.