Chuck Larivey OPA, Oil Painter: Painting Mood in ART

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Painting Mood in ART

Let’s talk about emotion, sensitivity, and mood in art. Capturing the feel of a moment in a photo or painting is the real challenge for any artist. I know I often forget this, so it’s tough to explain to others whose work might be missing that spark.

From my own experience, mood sells. When I’m asked to pick a reference from a group of selections, I always gravitate toward the ones with mood or drama. If you choose one of my picks, the hope is you'll try to match that mood and avoid a static result. Every detail isn’t important—what matters is capturing the essence of the atmosphere, like the natural movement and rhythm of a horse running on the beach.

Morning Gallop by Chuck Larivey

11.5x36 oil on linen 10/9/12 - Private Collection

Great artists like George Inness captured mood in landscapes beautifully. Rembrandt had a natural touch with any subject, and David Leffel channels Rembrandt’s ability really well. Historically, mood in art has always resonated with people. And let’s not forget Mark Rothko, the master of simplicity, who used color to evoke profound moods and emotions. His work shows how powerful color can be in creating an emotional experience.

INNESS AND SIP

LOOKING BACK

SIP member Kathy Rivera channeling Inness - studying MOOD

Golden Morning 24x24 oil on linen - Kathy Rivera

As we gear up for our SIP Summer Boot Camp, it’s crucial to focus on infusing your work with mood and emotion. Feel the scene you’re painting and convey that emotion through your brushstrokes. The essence of a moment is far more impactful than the sum of its details.