What Should I Paint? Trending Themes [Year]

Feeling that creative itch but can’t quite nail down the perfect subject for your next masterpiece? Inspiration can strike in unexpected places, and knowing current trends can give you that spark you need! Many artists find that exploring prompts from organizations like the Society of Decorative Painters provides a fantastic starting point. Color palettes are also key, and tools like the Adobe Color Wheel can help you find trending color combinations. Don’t forget to look at artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, whose iconic floral paintings still influence contemporary art. Considering these elements can answer the big question: what should i paint this year? Finally, exploring the landscapes of your own local region might give you some refreshing ideas to get started.

Unleash Your Inner Artist: A Comprehensive Guide to Painting

Welcome to the vibrant and endlessly rewarding world of painting! Forget any preconceived notions you might have about needing to be a "natural" or a seasoned pro.

Painting is for everyone. It’s a journey of self-discovery, a fantastic outlet for creativity, and a skill that can be learned and honed with practice and passion.

Ready to dive in? Think of this guide as your personal roadmap to artistic fulfillment. We’ll explore everything you need to get started and develop your painting abilities.

What We’ll Cover

Over the course of this guide, we’ll delve into the essential elements that will empower you to create beautiful and expressive art. We’ll take a look at:

• Finding Inspiration: Discovering what sparks your creativity and identifying your unique artistic style.

• Essential Supplies: Choosing the right paints, brushes, canvases, and other tools to equip your studio.

• Mastering Techniques: Learning fundamental painting concepts like color theory, composition, and the use of light and shadow.

• Online Learning: Taking advantage of the vast resources available online to elevate your skills.

• Sharing and Selling Your Art: Building an online presence and connecting with other artists, and even selling your creations!

Your Artistic Adventure Awaits

Whether you dream of painting breathtaking landscapes, creating stunning portraits, or exploring the freedom of abstract art, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to begin.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and most importantly, have fun! Painting is a deeply personal and enriching experience, and we’re excited to help you unlock your creative potential.

So, grab your brushes, prepare your palette, and get ready to embark on a colorful and inspiring artistic journey! Let’s paint!

Finding Your Muse: Inspiration and Artistic Style

The world of painting is a vast and wondrous landscape, ripe with possibilities. But where do you even begin? Finding inspiration and identifying your artistic style is like discovering your North Star in this boundless realm. It’s about uncovering what truly resonates with you and allowing that spark to ignite your creativity.

Let’s explore diverse avenues for igniting your imagination and guide you toward defining your unique artistic voice.

Inspiration: Where to Find It

Inspiration isn’t some elusive, magical force. It’s everywhere, waiting to be discovered! The key is to train your eye and open your mind to the beauty and stories that surround you.

Nature’s Embrace

Nature is an inexhaustible wellspring of inspiration. Think rolling landscapes bathed in golden light, the delicate intricacies of botanical art, or the raw power and grace of animals in their natural habitats.

• Landscapes: Capture the grandeur of mountains, the serenity of lakes, or the vibrant hues of a sunset.
• Botanical Art: Study the intricate details of flowers, leaves, and plants, translating their forms and textures onto canvas.
• Animal Art: Depict the unique personalities and characteristics of animals, celebrating their beauty and diversity.

Urban Rhythms: The Pulse of Cityscapes

The city, with its vibrant energy and architectural marvels, offers a completely different kind of inspiration.

Capture the bustling atmosphere of street scenes, the geometric patterns of skyscrapers, or the captivating interplay of light and shadow in urban settings.

Don’t forget the human element; capture the essence of city life.

The Digital Realm: Online Platforms

The internet is a treasure trove of visual inspiration.

• Pinterest: Use Pinterest to create mood boards and gather visual ideas from around the world. It’s a great tool for building visual themes and ideas.
• Instagram: Discover trending styles and connect with other artists.
  Follow artists whose work you admire and engage with the community.

Sparking Creativity: Art Challenges

Feeling stuck? Art challenges are a fantastic way to break through creative blocks and develop new skills.

Many online communities host daily or weekly prompts that encourage you to explore different themes and techniques. Participating in these challenges can ignite your imagination and push you beyond your comfort zone.

Exploring Different Styles & Movements

Understanding different painting styles and movements provides a broader context for your own artistic journey. It’s about learning from the past while forging your own path.

Abstract Expressionism: The Freedom of Emotion

Embrace spontaneous, emotional art. Let your feelings guide your brushstrokes, creating works that are raw, expressive, and deeply personal.

Think Jackson Pollock’s drip paintings or Mark Rothko’s color field explorations.

Impressionism: Capturing Fleeting Moments

Learn to capture light and fleeting moments with loose brushstrokes and vibrant colors. Focus on the impression of a scene rather than a precise representation.

Monet’s water lilies are a classic example of impressionistic painting.

Pop Art: Celebrating Popular Culture

Use imagery from popular culture in your paintings. Incorporate elements of advertising, comics, and mass media to create bold and eye-catching works.

Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein are iconic figures in the pop art movement.

Realism: Depicting the World as It Is

Focus on depicting subjects as they appear in real life, with meticulous attention to detail. Strive for accuracy in form, color, and texture.

Think of the photorealistic paintings of Chuck Close or the classical realism of the Old Masters.

Street Art/Muralism: Art for the Masses

Explore large-scale artworks with impactful messages. Create murals that transform public spaces and engage with the community.

Banksy and Shepard Fairey are well-known street artists who use their art to address social and political issues.

Digital Art: Pixels as Paint

Dive into creating art using digital tools, such as tablets and software programs. Explore the endless possibilities of digital painting and illustration.

Digital art offers unique advantages in terms of flexibility, precision, and the ability to experiment with different effects.

Anime/Manga Art: Japanese Inspiration

Incorporate elements from Japanese animation and comics. Emphasize stylized characters, dynamic compositions, and vibrant colors.

Anime and manga art has gained immense popularity worldwide, influencing countless artists and designers.

Abstract Art: Beyond Representation

Experiment with non-representational art focused on form and color. Explore the relationships between shapes, lines, and textures, creating works that evoke emotions and ideas without depicting recognizable objects.

Kandinsky is considered to be one of the founders of abstract art.

Subject Matter & Themes: Guiding Your Vision

Explore how different subject matters, like still life, portraits, and social commentary, can guide your artistic direction.

Consider what themes you want to explore through your art and how you can use your paintings to express your unique perspective.

Finding Your Unique Artistic Style

Your artistic style is the culmination of your influences, experiences, and personal vision. It’s what makes your work instantly recognizable as your own.

The best way to discover your style is to experiment, explore, and most importantly, trust your instincts. Don’t be afraid to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them.

As you create more art, you’ll naturally gravitate toward certain techniques, subjects, and styles that feel authentic to you. Over time, your unique artistic style will emerge, reflecting your individual voice and perspective.

Equipping Your Studio: Essential Art Supplies

Stepping into the world of painting is exciting, but the array of art supplies can feel overwhelming. Fear not! Equipping your studio doesn’t require breaking the bank or buying everything at once. It’s about gathering the essential tools that will support your creative journey, allowing you to explore, experiment, and grow as an artist. This section will guide you through selecting the right supplies, ensuring you have everything you need to bring your artistic visions to life.

Let’s dive into the must-have art supplies that will set you up for success, regardless of your skill level.

Must-Have Art Supplies

Building a functional and inspiring art studio starts with the right supplies. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials, with guidance on choosing what suits your needs and preferences.

Paints: Choosing Your Medium

The most crucial decision is selecting your primary paint medium. The main choices are acrylic, oil, and watercolor, each with unique properties, advantages, and challenges. Let’s examine each:

Acrylic Paints

Acrylic paints are water-based, fast-drying, and versatile. They’re excellent for beginners due to their ease of use and clean-up. Acrylics can be thinned with water or acrylic mediums, and they adhere to a wide range of surfaces, including canvas, paper, wood, and fabric.

Pros: Fast-drying, water-based, versatile, affordable, easy to clean.

Cons: Colors can slightly darken as they dry; fast drying time can make blending challenging for beginners.

Oil Paints

Oil paints are known for their rich colors, slow drying time, and blendability. They offer a luxurious feel and allow for creating depth and luminosity.

Working with oils requires solvents like turpentine or odorless mineral spirits for thinning and cleaning. Proper ventilation is essential.

Pros: Rich colors, excellent blendability, slow drying time allows for adjustments.

Cons: Slower drying time, requires solvents for cleaning, can be more expensive than acrylics.

Watercolor Paints

Watercolor paints are transparent, delicate, and luminous. They’re ideal for creating washes, gradients, and detailed illustrations. Watercolor painting emphasizes control of water and pigment.

Pros: Portable, luminous, unique transparent effects, relatively easy cleanup.

Cons: Can be challenging to control, mistakes are harder to correct, requires specific paper.

Brushes: Understanding Shapes and Sizes

Brushes are the workhorses of painting. Different shapes and sizes are suited for various tasks. It’s useful to have a selection of brushes in your studio.

Types of Brush Hair:

• Synthetic: Affordable, durable, and good for acrylics and watercolors.
• Natural (e.g., sable, hog bristle): Ideal for oils, as they hold more paint and provide better control.

Common Brush Shapes:

• Round: For detail work, fine lines, and calligraphy.
• Flat: For broad strokes, filling in areas, and creating sharp edges.
• Filbert: A versatile brush with a rounded edge, suitable for blending and soft edges.
• Angular: For precise angles and controlled strokes.

Canvas: Selecting the Right Surface

The surface you paint on significantly impacts the final result. Canvas is a popular choice, available in various forms:

Stretched Canvas: Canvas stretched over a wooden frame, ready to paint on. Offered in different sizes and grades.

Canvas Panels: Canvas glued to a rigid board, a more affordable and portable option.

Canvas Rolls: Unstretched canvas, allowing you to stretch your own canvases to custom sizes.

Consider the size of your project and the texture of the canvas (smooth or rough) when making your selection.

Paper: Exploring Types for Sketching and Watercolor

Paper is essential for sketching, practicing, and watercolor painting. The weight and texture of the paper affect how the paint behaves.

Sketching Paper: Lighter weight paper suitable for pencils, charcoal, and pastels.

Watercolor Paper: Heavier weight paper (140 lb or more) that can withstand water without buckling. Available in hot-pressed (smooth), cold-pressed (textured), and rough surfaces.

Experiment with different paper types to discover what best suits your style and technique.

Palette: Your Mixing Station

A palette is crucial for mixing paints and creating custom colors. There are two main types:

Disposable Palettes: Paper palettes that can be torn off and discarded after use, convenient for quick cleanup.

Reusable Palettes: Palettes made of plastic, glass, or ceramic. They’re easy to clean and provide a durable mixing surface.

For oil painting, consider a palette with a tight-fitting lid to keep your paints from drying out.

Easel: Providing Support

An easel provides a stable support for your canvas, allowing you to paint comfortably and at the correct angle.

Types of Easels:

• A-Frame Easel: A portable and affordable option for smaller canvases.
• H-Frame Easel: More stable and suitable for larger canvases, often adjustable in height and angle.
• Tabletop Easel: A small easel designed for use on a table or desk, ideal for small-scale projects.

Choosing the right easel depends on the size of your workspace and the scale of your paintings.

Mastering the Fundamentals: Essential Painting Techniques

So, you’ve gathered your supplies and are ready to dive in! But where do you start? Understanding the fundamentals is like building a solid foundation for your artistic house. These core concepts will empower you to create more compelling and visually appealing paintings. Let’s explore the essential techniques that will elevate your work from simple strokes to stunning compositions.

We’ll break down color theory, composition, and the magical interplay of light and shadow. Get ready to unlock the secrets to making your paintings truly shine!

Color Theory: Your Palette’s Potential

Color is the language of painting, and understanding its nuances can transform your work. Don’t be intimidated! Color theory is accessible and incredibly rewarding to learn. It’s more than just knowing your reds from your blues.

It’s about understanding how colors interact, how they affect each other, and how to use them to create specific moods and effects.

Understanding Color Relationships

At its heart, color theory revolves around the color wheel. This visual tool displays the relationships between primary (red, yellow, blue), secondary (green, orange, violet), and tertiary colors (combinations of primary and secondary colors).

Understanding these relationships is key to creating harmonious and visually appealing palettes. For example, complementary colors (opposite each other on the wheel, like red and green) create high contrast and excitement.

Analogous colors (next to each other, like blue, blue-green, and green) provide a sense of harmony and tranquility.

Mastering Color Mixing

Don’t rely solely on pre-mixed colors! The real magic happens when you learn to mix your own shades. Start with a limited palette of primary colors and white. Experiment with mixing different proportions to create a wide range of hues.

Understanding how to mix colors will give you greater control over your palette and allow you to achieve subtle variations that will add depth and complexity to your paintings.

Pro Tip: Keep a color mixing journal where you record the ratios you use to create specific colors. This will save you time and frustration in the long run!

Creating Effective Palettes

Choosing the right color palette is crucial for conveying the mood and message of your painting. Consider the emotions you want to evoke and select colors accordingly.

A warm palette (reds, oranges, yellows) can create a feeling of energy and excitement. A cool palette (blues, greens, violets) can evoke a sense of calm and serenity.

Experiment with different palettes to see what works best for your subject matter and artistic style.

Composition: Arranging for Impact

Composition is the art of arranging elements within your painting to create a visually balanced and engaging image. It’s about guiding the viewer’s eye and creating a focal point that draws them into the artwork.

The Rule of Thirds

One of the most well-known compositional guidelines is the rule of thirds. Imagine dividing your canvas into nine equal parts using two horizontal and two vertical lines. Place key elements of your painting along these lines or at their intersections. This creates a more dynamic and visually interesting composition than simply centering the subject.

Creating a Focal Point

Every painting should have a focal point – the area that first attracts the viewer’s attention. This can be achieved through various means, such as using contrasting colors, sharp focus, or leading lines that draw the eye to a specific area.

Make sure your focal point is clear and well-defined, but don’t overcrowd it. Leave some breathing room around the focal point to allow it to stand out.

Leading Lines

Leading lines are lines that guide the viewer’s eye through the painting, leading them to the focal point or other areas of interest.

They can be straight or curved, and they can be created by various elements, such as roads, rivers, or even the arrangement of objects.

Use leading lines strategically to create a sense of depth and movement in your paintings.

Balancing Elements

Balance is essential for creating a visually pleasing composition. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the painting has to be symmetrical.

You can achieve balance through various means, such as using contrasting colors, varying the size and shape of elements, or creating a sense of visual weight on different sides of the canvas.

Light and Shadow: Adding Depth and Dimension

Light and shadow are essential for creating a sense of depth and dimension in your paintings. Understanding how light interacts with objects is key to creating realistic and believable forms.

Understanding Values

Value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. Creating a full range of values in your painting is crucial for creating a sense of depth and dimension.

Use a value scale to practice identifying and mixing different values. This will help you see the subtle variations in light and shadow that bring your paintings to life.

Identifying Light Source

Before you start painting, determine the location of your light source. This will determine where the highlights and shadows fall on your subject.

Pay attention to how the light source affects the shape and form of the objects you’re painting.

Creating Highlights and Shadows

Highlights are the brightest areas of your painting, where the light is hitting the object directly. Shadows are the darkest areas, where the light is blocked.

Use highlights and shadows to create a sense of volume and form. Soften the transitions between highlights and shadows to create a more natural effect.

By mastering these fundamental techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating paintings that are not only visually appealing but also technically sound. So grab your brushes and start experimenting! The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in your abilities.

Level Up Your Skills: Online Art Education Resources

Ready to take your painting skills to the next level? The beauty of the digital age is that world-class art instruction is now at your fingertips! Forget stuffy classrooms and rigid schedules; online art education offers a flexible and accessible way to hone your craft.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking to refine your technique, there’s a wealth of resources waiting to be discovered. Let’s explore some of the best online platforms to fuel your artistic growth.

The Power of Online Learning

Why choose online art education? The benefits are numerous!

Firstly, it’s incredibly convenient. Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, from the comfort of your home.

Secondly, it’s often more affordable than traditional art classes. You can access a vast library of content for a fraction of the cost.

Finally, online platforms connect you with a global community of artists, providing invaluable feedback and inspiration.

YouTube: Your Free Art School

YouTube is a treasure trove of free art tutorials and demonstrations. It’s an amazing place to start your learning journey or supplement your existing knowledge.

Many talented artists and instructors share their expertise on YouTube, covering a wide range of topics from basic drawing techniques to advanced painting methods.

Finding the Best Channels

With so much content available, it can be tough to know where to begin. Here are a few channel recommendations to get you started:

• Draw Mix Paint: Run by the insightful artist, Matt Fussell. Matt breaks down fundamental concepts with easy-to-understand explanations.
• Proko: Known for figure drawing tutorials, but also offers excellent insights into artistic anatomy applicable to all art forms.
• Florent Farges – The Oil Painter: Specializing in traditional oil painting. Florent is a great resource for learning about materials and techniques.
• Andrew Tischler: Teaches classical painting techniques with a focus on landscapes.

Tip: Search for specific techniques or topics you’re interested in. Add keywords like “acrylic painting tutorial,” “watercolor washes,” or “color mixing guide” to refine your search.

Skillshare: Deep Dive into Focused Learning

Skillshare offers thousands of online classes covering a wide range of creative skills, including painting.

These classes are typically project-based, providing you with hands-on experience and the opportunity to create your own artwork.

Skillshare operates on a subscription model, giving you unlimited access to all classes for a monthly or annual fee. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective way to learn multiple skills.

Recommended Painting Classes on Skillshare

• Beginner’s Guide to Acrylic Painting: Offers a comprehensive introduction to acrylic painting techniques and materials.
• Watercolor Painting for Beginners: Designed to help you master essential watercolor skills, from basic washes to more advanced techniques.
• Painting Realistic Portraits: Step-by-step guidance for creating lifelike portraits using various painting mediums.

Tip: Take advantage of Skillshare’s free trial period to explore the platform and find classes that match your interests and skill level.

Domestika: Professional-Level Art Courses

Domestika stands out with its high-quality, professionally produced art courses. It features instructors who are leading artists and experts in their fields.

Domestika courses are known for their in-depth content, stunning visuals, and engaging teaching style.

While Domestika courses are individually priced, they often run promotions and offer bundles, making them a worthwhile investment for serious artists.

Notable Domestika Instructors

• Ana Victoria Calderón: Specializes in vibrant watercolor illustrations. A great teacher for learning about color and composition.
• Adolfo Serra: Focuses on visual storytelling and illustration. Provides inspiration for creating meaningful artwork.
• Oriol Angrill Jordà: Master of realistic oil painting. His course offers a deep dive into the techniques of old masters.

Tip: Read reviews and watch the introductory videos before purchasing a Domestika course to ensure it aligns with your learning goals.

Embrace the Journey

The online world offers an incredible opportunity to learn and grow as a painter. From free tutorials on YouTube to in-depth courses on Skillshare and Domestika, there’s a resource for every artist and every budget.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different platforms and instructors to find what works best for you. The most important thing is to be consistent with your practice and enjoy the process of learning and creating.

So, dive in, explore, and unlock your full artistic potential!

Sharing Your Vision: Building an Online Presence and Selling Your Art

So, you’ve honed your skills, created stunning artwork, and are ready to share your vision with the world. That’s fantastic! But how do you get your art seen and, even better, turn your passion into profit? The answer lies in building a strong online presence and strategically utilizing platforms designed for artists.

In today’s digital age, a website or profile can act as your virtual gallery, open 24/7 to a global audience. Let’s explore how to cultivate that presence and turn your artwork into a source of income.

Building Your Online Presence: Connect and Engage

An online presence is more than just posting pictures of your art. It’s about building a community, engaging with fellow artists, and creating a brand that reflects your unique style and artistic vision.

Instagram: Visual Storytelling and Community Building

Instagram is a powerhouse for visual artists. It’s the perfect place to showcase your work, connect with potential buyers, and build a loyal following. But simply posting isn’t enough; strategic engagement is key.

Here’s how to make the most of Instagram:

• High-Quality Images: Use clear, well-lit photos of your artwork. Show details, textures, and the process behind your creations.
• Consistent Posting: Aim for a regular posting schedule to keep your audience engaged.
• Strategic Hashtags: Research and use relevant hashtags to increase visibility. Examples include #art, #painting, #artist, and more specific ones related to your subject matter (e.g., #landscapepainting, #portraitart).
• Engage with Others: Like, comment, and follow other artists and art enthusiasts. Build relationships and participate in the community.
• Use Stories and Reels: Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your process, studio, or inspiration. This creates a personal connection with your followers.
• Run Contests and Giveaways: Encourage engagement and attract new followers by hosting contests or giveaways.
• Calls to Action: Encourage engagement and interaction by posing questions, providing a call to action (visiting a shop or website), or offering a preview of something new to come.

Remember, Instagram is a social platform. Be authentic, engage genuinely, and let your personality shine through!

DeviantArt: Nurturing Your Inner Circle

DeviantArt is a long-standing online community specifically for artists. While Instagram focuses on broader appeal, DeviantArt offers a more niche, art-focused environment.

On DeviantArt, you can:

• Showcase your portfolio: Create a comprehensive gallery of your artwork.
• Receive critiques and feedback: Actively seek constructive criticism from other artists to improve your skills.
• Participate in groups and forums: Connect with artists who share your interests and learn from their experiences.
• Offer commissions: DeviantArt provides a platform for selling commissions and custom artwork.

DeviantArt is a valuable resource for building relationships with other artists, receiving feedback, and finding inspiration. While sales may not be as immediate as on other platforms, it fosters a supportive and collaborative environment.

Selling Your Art: From Passion to Profit

Now that you’ve built an online presence, it’s time to explore ways to monetize your art. One of the most accessible platforms for selling handmade art is Etsy.

Etsy: Your Virtual Art Gallery

Etsy is a popular online marketplace specializing in handmade, vintage, and unique items. It’s a fantastic platform for artists to reach a global audience and sell their work.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up an Etsy shop:

1. Create an Etsy Account: Sign up for an Etsy account and choose a shop name that reflects your brand.
2. Set Up Shop Policies: Clearly outline your shipping, return, and payment policies.
3. List Your Artwork: Create detailed and compelling listings for each piece, including high-quality photos, accurate descriptions, and pricing.
4. Optimize Your Listings: Use relevant keywords in your titles and descriptions to improve search visibility.
5. Promote Your Shop: Utilize social media and other marketing channels to drive traffic to your Etsy shop.
6. Provide Excellent Customer Service: Respond promptly to inquiries and provide a positive shopping experience to encourage repeat business.
7. Shipping and Fulfillment: Determine a shipping policy, package your artwork carefully and ensure you have a system to fulfill orders.

Remember, running a successful Etsy shop requires effort and dedication. Be patient, provide excellent customer service, and continually refine your listings and marketing strategies.

Beyond Etsy, consider other options like your own website (using platforms like Shopify or Squarespace) for greater control over your brand and sales process. Explore print-on-demand services like Printful or Society6 for selling art prints and merchandise without managing inventory.

Building an online presence and selling your art is a journey, not a destination. Be persistent, stay creative, and embrace the opportunities that the digital world offers.

So, what should I paint next? Hopefully, this rundown of trending themes has sparked some inspiration! Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on these ideas. Ultimately, the best thing to paint is something that excites you. Happy creating!