Scott Maier's Field Guide Explains Atmospheric Perspective Beyond Simple Color Rules
Scott Maier, an artist, contends that conventional atmospheric perspective can be restrictive when depicting diverse landscapes. In his article, which is associated with his upcoming book "The Field Guide to Landscape Painting in Oils," now available for pre-order, he proposes categorizing landscapes into zones of direct light, deep shadow, and mixed light. He highlights the sun as the main light source, with the sky serving as a secondary one. Forms illuminated by sunlight maintain warmth, while shaded areas exhibit the classic cool blue tone. Maier recommends evaluating the balance of light and shadow and simplifying subjects into flat value shapes. He teaches as an adjunct at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design and has authored multiple books, including "See, Think, Draw."
Key facts
- Scott Maier is an artist, instructor, and content contributor to artistsnetwork.com
- Maier is an adjunct instructor at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
- His book "The Field Guide to Landscape Painting in Oils: Techniques, Planning, and Principles for Capturing the Art of the Great Outdoors" is available for pre-order
- The article divides landscape light into direct light, full shadow, and mixed illumination
- The sun is described as the primary light source: direct, intense, warm, and directional
- The sky is described as the secondary light source: diffused, ambient, soft, and cool
- Distant shadows lighten in value until their darks approach the value of the sky
- Maier's other books include "See, Think, Draw: An Easy Guide for Realistic Drawing and Beyond" and "The Little Book of Oil Painting Secrets"
Entities
Artists
- Scott Maier
Institutions
- Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
- artistsnetwork.com
- Southwest Art
- Pastel Journal