Marc Whitman: Creating Energy with Color

Taft Garden Walkway

In my explorations of art and oil painting I am often seeking  a color combination that will create energy in my work . 

Opposite colors on a color wheel are known to create a certain vibration or a friction that that can work for or against the desired result in the painting . Sometimes artists will add a transition color between these contrasting colors to soften or neutralize the effect.

Sometimes artists will combine colors next to each other to create an illusion of a third color. Or a color can look completely different when in combination with other colors.

Van Gogh was a master at creating energy with his colors. His painting are mesmerizing because of his combinations of color. I am continuously experimenting , exploring and playing with color to find that combination that will bring a painting to life.