From Pastels to Oil Paintings: Exploring Mediums and Finding Passion

From Pastels to Oil Paintings: Exploring Mediums and Finding Passion

I did some pastels and I did other pieces in which there was just basically one color per square, and then they would get bigger and I could get 2 or 3 colors into the square, and ultimately I just started making oil paintings.

Chuck Close


From Pastels to Oil Paintings: Exploring Mediums and Finding Passion Chuck Close’s journey as an artist, from experimenting with pastels and mono-color squares to creating intricate oil paintings, showcases the power of experimentation and perseverance. His transition to oil painting allowed for greater control and complexity in his artwork, emphasizing the importance of adapting and evolving as an artist. Close’s story serves as an inspiration for young artists to embrace the journey of discovery, never fearing to redefine their artistic path.



   

Meaning of Quote – I did some pastels and I did other pieces in which there was just basically one color per square, and then they would get bigger and I could get 2 or 3 colors into the square, and ultimately I just started making oil paintings.

Chuck Close, an American painter and photographer, once said, “I did some pastels and I did other pieces in which there was just basically one color per square, and then they would get bigger and I could get 2 or 3 colors into the square, and ultimately I just started making oil paintings.” These words beautifully capture the journey of an artist exploring different mediums and techniques, gradually honing their skills and finding their true passion. Close’s evolution as an artist serves as a testament to the power of experimentation and the importance of perseverance in creative pursuits.

When Close mentions doing pastels and using only one color per square, he is likely referring to his early days as an artist, experimenting with different mediums and limiting his color palette. Pastels, a dry art medium, often consist of powdered pigments mixed with a binder and often applied to a textured surface, providing a unique and distinctive visual effect. By working with pastels, Close would have developed a sense of color and composition, laying the foundation for his artistic journey.

Using only one color per square, Close was challenging himself to explore the possibilities of monochromatic art. This approach allowed him to focus on the play of light and shadow, as well as the form and texture within a limited range of tones. By exploring different sizes of squares and gradually incorporating more colors, Close was expanding his artistic horizons, pushing boundaries, and discovering the potential of increased visual complexity.

Through this process of experimentation and growth, Close eventually found his way to oil painting. Oil painting is a centuries-old technique that uses pigments mixed with drying oils as the medium. It allows for a wide range of effects, including vibrant colors, subtle gradients, and rich textures. Close’s transition into oil painting was likely driven by a desire to further refine his artistic expression, seeking a medium that provided him with even more control and flexibility.

   

Oil painting, with its slow drying time, allows artists like Close to work in layers, building up depth and complexity in their artwork. The medium’s forgiving nature also allows for the blending of colors, giving artists the ability to create smooth transitions and subtle nuances. By embracing oil painting, Close was able to achieve a greater level of detail and intricacy in his artwork, pushing the boundaries of what he could accomplish as an artist.

The journey from experimenting with pastels and mono-color squares to creating oil paintings also exemplifies the important role of perseverance and resilience in an artist’s growth. Close’s quote suggests that he did not give up along the way; instead, he continued to push himself further, exploring new techniques and embracing the challenges that came with each medium. This dedication to his craft and his willingness to iterate and improve is a valuable lesson for aspiring artists of all ages.

Close’s success as an artist is not only a result of his technical skill but also his ability to adapt and evolve. Every artist goes through a similar journey of experimentation, failure, and breakthroughs. It is through these trials and tribulations that the artist learns more about themselves, hones their skills, and finds their unique voice.

The story behind Close’s quote is a reminder that discovering one’s true passion and artistic style takes time and patience. It is a journey of exploration and self-discovery, filled with moments of both success and frustration. As young artists, it is essential to embrace this process, to experiment with different materials and techniques, and to be open to new possibilities.

In conclusion, Chuck Close’s quote beautifully captures the essence of an artist’s journey, from humble beginnings with pastels and mono-color squares to the mastery of oil painting. His words serve as an inspiration for aspiring artists to embrace experimentation, persevere through challenges, and never be afraid to redefine their artistic path. So, let us all continue to explore, create, and evolve, following in the footsteps of pioneers like Chuck Close.

   

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Freely Shareable Quote Image I did some pastels and I did other pieces in which there was just basically one color per square, and then they would get bigger and I could get 2 or 3 colors into the square, and ultimately I just started making oil paintings.