SCIENCE OR POETRY BEGINNINGS

From the Handout FYI: Impressionism is a dynamic art form because it thrives on contrasting ideas to make it work. They are as follows: the Science of Impressionism presents Simultaneous Contrast, Optical Mixing, and Ariel Perspective. Whereas the Poetry of Impressionism presents Impressionist Culture, Personalized subject matter, and Personalized sensations at the moment.

The Science side presents time-honored ideas based on the systematic study. The Poetry idea of impressionism is based on an expression. Even though these two ideas are quite different from one another they cannot exist without their union. This interplay is like a beautiful tango of robust structure and fluid ornamentation. This is what makes Impressionism one of the world’s greatest art forms.
Whatever you chose of materials and methods apply using your natural abilities.

Their pictural space being asymmetrical was an intentional response to their desire to capture the lived visual experience. The focal point, or point of view could be anywhere on the canvas, just as in life lived, we are visually made off balanced. Spatial and compositional effect were also more accurate to the reality ( see Part Two).

TWO APPROACHES
Science Approach
Starting with Drawing first to capture the main idea for transition from and into studio work
Planned Drawing
• Wire Frame – Design Template: Structural Integrity (Asymmetrical Composition Impressionist’s Flat Design versus Academy Symmetrical Composition)
Poetry Approach
Two ways
Starting with Color first to capture the impression and mood, start with toned or untoned ground, for quick spontaneous plein air work
Expressive Drawing
• Sketch using Brush - as a Wireframe - Impression Template: Capturing the main idea (Asymmetrical Composition Impressionist’s Flat Design versus Academy Symmetrical Composition).
Or
• Going straight to Color - not with a Wireframe using spots of color.