Marc Whitman: Color is a Language of Feeling

When we try to recreate nature on a 2-d surface as in landscape painting, we can never compare to the real thing. However, by amplifying and shifting hues we can evoke mood and energy.

Color becomes a language of feeling. Introducing warm tones in the middle of a cool field of color can create a dynamic contrast that give the feeling of tension.

Bold colors add vibrancy to a painting. Like when you add magenta to a tree trunk or purple into the shadows the painting can have a certain vibration.

So even though the beauty of nature can never be replicated or surpassed, an artist can add his own feelings through color.