There are many books written about why and how to use neutral colors. I have, for my own work, simplified things by making my own color reference chart about how to make neutrals with only two colors.
The WHY to use neutrals: The background or base color is made by combining the two main painting colors from my Goof-Proof Color Wheel (dominant and focal point color) plus black and white. On a Standard Color Wheel, the complementary colors are combined.
As in cooking, I stir these colors until I get the "quiet" color I want. This is not an exact science… it's making the color I want.
The HOW to use neutrals: Watch the video. You will see I have made a studio reference chart that I follow. I look for the neutral I want, then mix the two pure, clean colors - plus black and white.
An example: I want to use a neutral khaki color for a painting. The two pure colors are green and purple. This works, because even though this may be a limited palette of green and purple, mixing them helps hold the painting together as a unified, cohesive unit. It's a happy family!
Like I've said before, shift into the neutral gear to move forward!
Color Lesson: Making and Using Neutrals in your Painting
December 2-3, 2022
Color is exciting! Bright colors scream color! Neutrals whisper…
This Burridge workshop is all about neutral colors.
How to make neutrals and how to use neutral colors effectively in your paintings.
•You will make your own Neutral Color Chart as a studio reference
•You will learn to “grey down” color and discover which colors make neutrals pop
•Plenty of time for experimentation in mixing your favorite neutrals
•Making mud verses working with neutrals - Bob will assist you in learning the difference.
Click here for more info!
Also Online, in December!
Painting with Dry Pigments, Chalks and Powders
December 10-11, 2022
Learn how to create a singular!
Sponsored by the Mendocino Art Center
February 17-24, 2023
Abstract Acrylic Painting Workshop in the Bahamas
Dillman's Creative Arts Retreat is offering a fantastic painting experience
with Bob in Elbow Cay in the Abacos, Bahamas.
Click here for more info!
Click here for a PDF Flyer
Join Bob in Mexico! • January 21-28, 2023
Casa de Los Artistas - Boca de Tomatlán
Contact Robert Masla, (413) 625-8382
We have Gift Certificates!
For YOU to give… or for someone to give YOU
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Enjoying watching Bob's Demos? Join Bob Online!
•December 13, 2022
“Painting a Wine Bottle with 3 Strokes”
•January 17, 2023
“How to Start a Body of Work"
•February 1, 2023
“Abstract Florals from Loose, Colorful Splatters"
Paint with Bob in his Studio in Arroyo Grande, California
Studio Mentor • Five Day • Figure Painting Workshops
Mentor - March 16-19, 2023
5-day Abstract Mixed Media - June 26-30, 2023
4-day Figure Drawing & Painting - July 6-9, 2023
Studio Mentor • 5 Day Instructional • 4 Day Figure Painting Workshops
The Entire 2023 Studio Workshop Schedule is on our website!
Interested in a Non-Objective Mixed Media Painting Workshop?
•January 14-15, 2023
Non-Objective Mixed Media Painting - ONLINE WORKSHOP
• and •
•April 22-23, 2023
Non-Objective Mixed Media Painting - ONLINE WORKSHOP
Burridge Critiques Your Art
Online honest critiques • Private one-on-one
Critiques • Coaching • Comments • Suggestions
Click here for more information!
Burridge Available ArtWork - For sale on our website
New Available Work and Small Original Paint Sketches!
