Monday, June 11, 2012

Nature Vs. Man-Made

I finished my painting of the St. Louis Gateway Arch and it got me to thinking:  do man-made structures enhance or detract from their natural surroundings in a painting?  Except for the top ten ugliest buildings in the world, I guess it depends.  If the structure detracts from the scene, but is essential, it's a moot point. In this painting, I wanted the Arch to be the focal point, but I could certainly have just painted the trees and pond.  I think buildings, interesting structures or people can bring life into an otherwise boring landscape painting. Unless the landscape has something going on like mood - dark stormy skies, crashing ocean waves, huge mountain rocks.


                                             Stand Tall (St. Louis Arch) 8 x 10 Buy This On Etsy

What's your point of view?
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6 comments:

  1. Sweet Posy DreamsJune 11, 2012 at 7:25 AM

    I think buildings can serve as a kind of accent in a painting even when they are not the main subject. I'm imagining a lake scene with a little fishing shack or a countryside with a house or barn. I really like the colors in your Arch painting. So relaxing.

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  2. Susie TenzerJune 11, 2012 at 7:33 AM

    Thanks, Sweet Posy Dreams, I agree. I've been using this green/blue color palette lately. I've even begun switching my home to more greens & blues - love this combo.

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  3. Amy @ CLEAR / minimalJune 11, 2012 at 11:23 AM

    I think there is a time for each. I love scenes of mountain landscapes, but I also love city skylines. Beautiful piece that you just finished!

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  4. Susie TenzerJune 11, 2012 at 8:06 PM

    Hi Amy, thanks very much for taking time to comment!

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  5. Teresa KlineJune 12, 2012 at 10:20 PM

    it depends, I have to agree with the others...the one thing I see or think is that all artists perceive the landscape a little different even if it is the same landscape....we can all look at the same thing and see it a little differently.....that is what sets us all apart...hope you have a wonderful week!

    enjoy *~*

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  6. Susie TenzerJune 13, 2012 at 7:07 AM

    Thanks for joining the conversation, Teresa! A group of artists can get together, paint the same scene & each painting will be totally different! Another question - landscape or still life? Do you have a preference if you're buying artwork?

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