As there are many ways to grow a meditation practice, paintings can provide the same type of tranquillity we sometimes need to slow us down. Colour has been used in meditative practices for centuries. When we become familiar with colour, and we find the colours that resonate with us and make us feel good, finding the right piece of art is second nature.
The power of colour can change how we feel. And now, during this pandemic and we find ourselves having to spend more time in the same environment, perhaps locked down in our homes for weeks, the purposeful use of colour in our homes can lift our spirits and enhance our well being.
When I embark on a new piece of work, it all starts with colour for me. Once I know the colours I’d like to work with, the painting will flow from there. I have come to know what colours I need to work with over time, through understanding what I’m drawn to, and from there I will make the colours that I need.
I make my paint in batches so I have enough for at least 4 or 5 paintings. The small jars in the photo are perfect for storing my paint, keeping it airtight so the paint doesn’t dry out. The new paint I made this week is a mid tone green that works really well with deep blues. It’s this green that I used for the water in my latest painting ‘Still Waters’. I used linseed oil with my paint to create the glassy appearance of the turquoisey water which has a lovely, reflective nature to it and bounces back the colour and light.
This green paint took some time to make, but making these colours in advance means I can get to work knowing my paint is ready. This process also ensures I have continuity of colour throughout my work.
I’ve written about the cooling and calming greens in a previous post, and science backs up the idea that colour can have a strong, positive impact on us.
To view my collection of original paintings and prints currently available to purchase from my gallery, click here
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