WHAT DO I DO WITH THE BACKGROUND?
Have you ever gotten to a point where you just can’t decide on a background? Should you add more details, use one color or two or even create some abstract design back there? Here are some ideas for you when deciding on what to do in your background.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
Keep the background simple. Do not add too many details in the background, because having too much “stuff” will distract from the focal point. The focal point area should always be the most detailed while the outer edges are softer and more blurred. Your viewer will want to focus on the more detailed part and give the eye a resting spot.
COLOR CHOICES
Use only one color with mixed variations. To create more drama and life to your work, use complementary colors which are opposite on the color wheel. For example, if you are painting flowers in a rich magenta, a background color of varying mixtures of teal would make them “Pop”. Or if your flowers are bright pink, a soft green tone in the background would complement. Another color choice would be to add a neutral color such as gray or brown tone.
USE OF SPACE
Fill your entire canvas space with flowers where there is little to no background showing. Leaves and flowers would continue beyond the edges of the canvas, leading the eye of the viewer into your work and leave them questioning what else is beyond the surface. Remember to always paint your focal flower in detail and leave the flowers on the edge of the canvas more blurred and less detailed. You do not always have to give all the details to the viewer but let them explore and interpret on their own. It creates a more interesting piece of art.