Left brain-Right brain
Modern science indicates that the left and right hemispheres of the brain serve different functions. The left
side predominates in logic, math and planning. The right side is for communication and creativity.
To be creative without the left side of the brain working is like playing the lottery. Sometimes you win but most of the time you lose.
Planning a painting without using the right side of the brain becomes very static and predictable.
The artist must use both sides of the brain to achieve a well-executed, yet fresh and unique painting.
On the way to Starved Rock State Park in Illinois, crossing over a bridge, I noticed many cars parked along the side of the road. Curious, I stopped to investigate.
A well-worn earthen path led me to this scene to the left of the Vermillion River. A dry summer left the water shallow and moving very slowly. From the many photographs I took that day up and down the river, I decided to paint this view.
The first step involves the right brain. I happened to like the reflections in the water, and the the three youngsters fishing added an interesting human element. But I felt that it needed more color. The green trees were just too green, so I decided to move the season forward to create more of an autumnal feel.
Starting the painting, the left brain predominates. How do I paint this in transparent watercolor? Painting background to foreground, trees were the first wash. Large to small, light to dark, etc. all had to be thought through.
Working with gravity, I got the paint to flow where I wanted it. Salt was added to randomly create some texture—both right-brained touches.
The dark earth and rocks of the river bank were painted next reflecting into the water. The reflections of the trees into the water required the left brain to remember that the lights get darker and the darks get lighter.
To complete the painting, a combination of left brain and right brain thinking was required. The figures were added with transparent and some opaque paint.
How much detail (subjective and right-brained) and where to put it (logical and left-brained for good composition) were constantly at play.
The finished piece works because I took advantage of knowledge and experience balanced with the joy of painting.