Landscape, Monochomatic (Value) to Color... John Pototschnik Workshop

Photo Reference

Monochromatic Study (establishing values)

Color Study

Spring in the Courson's Backyard by J Joy Nocifora ©2011

I enjoyed developing the concepts in this landscape from the monochromatic study to color. John Pototschnik has a masterful and invaluable way of presenting color to his students based on the Munsell color system. "Color enhances the mood," says John.

Questions you should consider: 1. have you selected the proper palette for your concept? (Is it a cloudy, sunny, foggy... fall, winter, etc.) 2. have you mixed the correct hue and value consistent with the concept?

It is all very challenging, interesting and fun and it is very much something you have to work with a lot to fully understand the complexities of color and their relationships.

Just wondering... did I capture the concept in this color study?

Plein Air Painting with John Pototschnik

"Monochomatic Landscape Study #2" by J Joy Nocifora ©2011

9 x 12 oil on linen

Sometimes I hesitate to post work done in a workshop. First, it is not a finished painting and second, it most often not a painter's best work. I decided, however, to post this one to show the excellent instruction that I have experienced in John Pototschnik's workshop here in Pontotoc, Mississippi. I am so thrilled with all that I am learning. I feel like I have come miles in the past two days with John's attention and guidance.

I have painted two different studies like the one above using only raw umber. The #2 landscape study above was painted on location at Dot Courson's home. The first landscape study was completed in our studio location from a photograph. Tomorrow, we will add color to these monochromatic studies. I can't wait to see how they will look!

Today was the most gorgeous day!... glorious sunshine and not too warm. Dot and Jackie Courson have organized a fabulous workshop. Tonight they had all the participants to a cookout on their beautiful deck. It is great fun to be with such a talented group of painters!