Or How to Get a Painting Right the First Time

[@kut2o2]

Ian, what is remarkable is the way you address those small nuances which are the bane of any painter. It speaks volumes for the kind of experience you have had and the empathy that you have to make it that much easier for beginners and advanced-beginners perhaps. Thanks a lot for those insights which have incalculable value for aspiring painters.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you so much. I really appreciate it and I am delighted you find my videos so helpful. All the best.

[@serrielu8025]

As a beginner / hobbyist painter, honestly y’all, Ian’s channel seems like he’s revealing Houdini’s secrets or prized soup recipes. Amazing stuff, and I am very very grateful.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

That is very kind of you to say. I am delighted you are finding my videos helpful. All the best.

[@dianamohrsen8372]

You are an amazing teacher! Can't imagine anyone communicating more clearly. Plus it is inspiring as you make it all seem possible.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

that is very kind of you to say. Thanks so much Diana. All the best.

[@Dennis-Hare]

Good to have you back, Ian. Amazing results. Like any pro, you do make it look easy, yet you give aspiring painters hope. Hope that we can indeed progress. Thank you.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks so much Dennis. All the best.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Here's a news flash for you, and any other "beginner" (we all are) viewing this great art channel, it never gets "easy", and it is certainly not "fun" to paint, no matter how long you do it. Any time you hear someone say they want to paint cuz it looks like lots of "fun" you know they will never get very far. Painting, like playing music, is for serous people who want to learn something no one else, or few, can do. However, you never really arrive at your goals and that's what makes it worthwhile and challenging. The more you paint the more you expect from yourself, and the "goal post" keeps getting farther out of reach, but that should not stop you, if you are serious about it. It's also why so many people start painting and then give it up since they see no "progress" in their work. But it's not about progress, it is about learning something, and problem solving, constantly. Many people, it seems, produce painting videos on You Tube, but it is clear they only paint when they are "filming" themselves, with some awful music background, or on fast forward, without commentary or instruction. And their work usually really sucks, even though they seem to produce a lot of vids. You've all seen them, and know what I'm talking about, but Ian is not one of those people, clearly. He is a generous teacher. And like anything from computer programming to painting, the more you do it the more you will learn and the better you may get, but not always. I'm sure many computer programmers get fired because they don't keep learning new things to make their work if not "better" at least "seemingly easier", and that keeps them employed. Just a bit of advice and experience from someone who has painted a long time, in all media and genres, but is still looking at videos like Ian's here to learn some "new stuff" or review old things once learned. I'm guessing Ian never stops learning new things in art too!! So, all that being said, "happy painting" everyone!! LOL :D

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Richard, Hallelujah! Well said.@@ronschlorff7089

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

@@ronschlorff7089 Thanks. It’s helpful to learn that the goal posts will shift if we learn something. I suppose “fun” depends on the person. Some find things that are challenging fun even if it is hard work (mostly because they enjoy being engrossed in something)… just depends on the challenge.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Definitely, fun is in the eye of the beholder. Some folks find golf fun, for example, but that's not my game either. I subscribe to what Mark Twain is alleged to have said of golf: " A lovely walk, ..ruined", or words to that effect. LOL. I like the idea of "problem solving" that art provides you with; it keeps your brain "fresh" and "alive", even in old age!! LOL ;D@@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS

[@millytseng8080]

Thank you Ian for your generosity in sharing your knowledge. Just what I needed to learn and practice. 🙏

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much. Glad you liked it and all the best.

[@bartcharlow9807]

Wonderful example. You had me from the structural layout alone, then your skillful altering of the values between the various planes and the focal point. So well done and well explained. Thank you, Ian.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You're very welcome. Thank you for watching.

[@dutchamericanman]

What an excellent lesson. Thank you for making the time to produce these - I learn so much with each video. These raise my understanding of composition - now off to paint!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you so much. Enjoy the painting process and have fun. All the best.

[@lindaaddison4234]

You have done a wonderful job of explaining a step by step so that even a beginner like myself can understand. I believe I have gotten more from this video than any so far. By the way, it is a lovely painting.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

That makes me very happy to hear. Thank you Linda.

[@frenchgrama]

Beautifully explained... I learn sooooo much from you and am very grateful to you for sharing. I bought your book 'Mastering Composition' and refer to it often, I paint in watercolours only and I've tried a number of your compositions in watercolours with varying degrees of success due to the different way in which watercolours are applied compared to oils and acrylics - and I'll definitely have a go at doing this one. I would love to see you paint 'alla prima' in watercolour.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Delighted you enjoyed the video. And the book. I find I am way more fluid with oil. Much more experience with it than with watercolor. I'd have to do quite a bit of watercolor painting before I think my efforts would be helpful.

[@Delane61]

What an excellent teacher your are, Ian. Thank you so much for this video, it was so very helpful.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Glad it was helpful. Thanks so much.

[@skyofhoney7]

Yet again another brilliant video. So helpful, so clear, so informed. You inspire me.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

So glad. Thank you and all the best.

[@andrzejmaranda3699]

Your video is VERY INSTRUCTIVE, INFORMATIVE & INSPIRING, Ian!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you so much. I am glad you think so.

[@andrzejmaranda3699]

@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition: pleasure is ALL MINE! :)

[@sapienproductions]

Thank you Ian, I was just driving home and thinking, I wonder if Ian Roberts will have a new video soon, I sit down and there is a notification. I'm very happy. Great tips and information as ever and and incredibly beautiful painting to watch come to life. Thank you again for your time, knowledge and content.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you for the kind comment. I am glad I was able to deliver a video as soon as you were thinking about it. Best wishes.

[@anneadamczewski4187]

Brilliant! Thank you again Ian. I really appreciate that you keep ‘the main thing, the main thing’. Clarifying the point of interest. Repetition of shapes leading to the point of interest. Keeping the palate simple. Go slow. Don’t fuss and enjoy the process. 👏

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

HI Anne, that is exactly the right idea.

[@refugeinthewind]

Thank you so much. With the vast amount of content on the Internet it is such a pleasure to receive email notification of your videos! I learn so much. ( Can't wait for the farm work here to wind down in fall so I can spend the autumn and winter nights in my little studio...🎨🖼

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

That is very kind of you to say. Thank you. I wish you the best for autumn and winter nights in your little studio.

[@mortysnerd]

Thanks, Ian I always look forward to Tuesdays to see what you're going to teach us. you give a lot out and I hope you get it back through book sales and sales of your work. I always learn something or upgrade my attention to nuance.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I like your expression upgrade your attention to nuance. Nicely said.

[@NJ-bu7zw]

I stumbled onto your video series while searching some information on thumbnail sketches. And I am glad I did so. What a great, interesting series and way of teaching. I wish I had an art teacher like you in my younger days. So, thank you from the Netherlands and I am looking forward to the next videos.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Delighted you stumbled upon my channel. Thank you for watching and I hope you enjoy my videos. All the best, Ian.

[@juliepowell9615]

I so enjoyed watching you paint this Ian. It looked like a rather plain scene with flat light when you showed the reference image, but your painting brought it to life and it’s a beautiful calming image. You made alla prima appear so easy. I wish! Julie

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Glad you enjoyed it Julie.

[@marywilliamson2559]

This lesson/demo was super helpful, especially the advice to paint each object as you come to it, and then LEAVE IT ALONE! This is the most important tip for me to learn. Thenks

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you are not alone. All of us have to practice that more. Glad you liked the video. Thank you

[@suarezromelia3115]

Hi Ian, I haven't painted for a while but I'm ready to start again and this video is very helpful. Thank you very much for your valuable guide.

[@jeancollier2930]

I love this! Deceptively simple brush strokes and such a pleasing result. Much to learn! Many thanks, Ian.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much Jean.

[@marciagklarosk5161]

Another excellent and comprehensive class! Thank you very much!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome Marcia

[@rebeccabrown941]

Excellent tips (as usual) - I remember a quote someone told me, in relation to overworking: “There’s a value to spontaneity that ‘finish’ can never equal.” (Charles Movalli) Thanks for showing in a practical way what that looks like.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I really like that quote. Thank you Rebecca. All the best.

[@francoforleo4971]

Another excellent demo filled with inspiration and great advice 🙏🎨🙏

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much Franco. Glad you think so.

[@francoforleo4971]

Since I have adopted your approach on looking at shapes, my paintings have improved considerably… ( or so I think ! ) 🙏🎨🙏

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

wonderful to hear!@@francoforleo4971

[@normamiller2316]

Thank you Ian for breaking your process down in such a straightforward and practical approach. Such a beautiful painting, along with your impeccable choice of colors! I just finished Creative Authenticity, after purchasing it from your website. Impactful information, which I will refer to for both inspiration and confidence.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Glad you enjoyed the video Norman and CA. All the very best.

[@mikeinengland9982]

It's wonderful to see you working Ian. One second there's an outline sketch and then suddenly you've conjured up a masterpiece. The distance effect is brilliant. This is one of my two favourite paintings of yours; the other being the sunny garden with your wife in a blue dress. After seeing this I've promised myself I'm going to paint a similar landscape to be proud of. Thank you.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

that makes me very happy to hear Mike. Thank you for the kind words and I am glad you are using my videos as inspiration. All the best. @@mikeinengland9982

[@WENDYHIPS]

Ian, I can't thank you enough for your videos. Ive learned an immense amount from them, you!!! Your painting in this vid is stunning! Thank you for your generosity in sharing your insights and expertise! 🙏

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are very welcome. I appreciate your kind comment

[@annebutt4507]

Thank you so much, Ian, for this terrific tutorial.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You're very welcome Anne. All the best.

[@michelfrance75]

Thank you for this excellent video which illustrates how with a fairly banal and not very photogenic landscape, you can create a beautiful painting. I really like the artistic way in which you treated the tall grass in the foreground as well as the wheat field, this deserves to be developed in a specific video.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yes, all of nature is potentially beautiful, you just have to take time to study and appreciate it deeply, and painting it allows you to do that!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

It's funny you say you thought the photo banal because from the time I took it I thought oh this will make a great painting. But the thing is I am attracted to the compositional structure really, not to the scene itself (as scenic or beautiful say). Delighted you enjoyed the video. With best wishes.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I think a lot of learning to paint is learning to see. Sort of a right brain shift to seeing in terms of design perhaps.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yes, Ian, it is amazing how almost anything you can think of, at least in a landscape, will make a good if not great painting, compositionally. It doesn't have to be "heroic", like the Grand Canyon, that's been done, "ad nauseum", or like the duck flying over a marsh, or much much worse, IMHO, a dumb plate of fruit. LOL ;D. But the most interesting light effects, thanks to our G-type star, and good composition, thanks to the observant artist, can be found in the most "overlooked" and common of landscapes. :D@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition

[@michelfrance75]

I'm talking about the raw landscape not your photo which is already an artistic interpretation. A photo taken and framed by a painter is already a beginning of a painting. This is perhaps why one hardly ever finds a photo conducive to a painting in the image banks with catchy and excessively processed shots more conducive to travel agency advertisements.@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition

[@arnabkundu6211]

Absolutely love the way you teach! Hoping to be able to incorporate some of it in my next painting

[@sarahplynch]

Ian, I have only recently discovered your channel and have now worked through from the beginning. I rather belatedly realized that your book, “Mastering Composition” , has been on my Amazon wish list for several years but had slipped to the bottom. I have been painting for decades but have always felt that while basic composition is the most important aspect of all art it is also my own weakness. Thank you for your very helpful videos (and I have now purchased the book too!)

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you Sarah. I am glad you found me on KZbin - funny about the book too. I hope you enjoy it. Thank you for the kind comment. All the best.

[@vivaldirules]

That was excellent. You make this so accessible. I really appreciate your effort. Thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

kind of you to say. Thanks so much.

[@snowsick1]

An admirable painting and a brilliant thoughtful instruction) and to slow down - this is a remarkable synch for me)) thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You're very welcome!

[@dektold76]

Very inspiring study on the use of foliage tones and essential brushstrokes. Thank You !

[@naturevideos6496]

Hello Ian, I wanted to express how much I thoroughly enjoyed your demonstration. I watched it twice and was truly impressed. Your skills in this style of painting are undeniable, and it's clear that you are a master of your craft. As for my own painting endeavors, I anticipate that my free time for painting will draw near, most likely in January of the coming year. I have one more semester of teaching to complete before I can fully immerse myself in the world of landscape painting. I've been eagerly looking forward to this transition, as it's a significant step toward realizing my artistic passion. I want to take this opportunity to wish you all the best, Ian. Your talent and dedication are inspiring, and I look forward to the time when I can devote myself entirely to my artistic pursuits. Warm regards, Amarasiri

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Hi Amarasiri, I wish you years of artistic engagement when you retire. Sounds exciting. With best wishes.

[@apianarosa]

Your painting is much more vibrant than the photo, that simple scene comes to life.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much.

[@teriehr8490]

Just unbelievable! the deliberate brush strokes, almost mushing the brush, then the distinction between light and dark.....and simplistic! I just can't get over it. I just did a little 5 x 7 of a vineyard and I probably used more brushstrokes than you did!! Always learning! and this is going to be my primer to watch over and over! Thank you Thank you Thank you!!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

So glad you found it helpful. All the best.

[@christinerothmuller2597]

Allways great to watch you painting carefully and beautifully!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you Christine. All the best

[@grandpa_eric]

Inspiring lesson. Thank you! When I paint plein air alla prima I’m compelled to capture the elements quickly. Usually top to bottom as you demonstrated. It’s a race with the sunlight. Sometimes I scrub in the darks, hit the local color, saving the highlights and accents for last. It works! Trying to slow down, and leave the brushwork alone in the end is a challenge. I leave my expression and joy of the moment at the scene. And onto the next painting. Thank you so much, Ian. Your clarity in approach is wonderful.

[@carolv987]

Ian, thank you so much for these videos. I love your books as well. Last summer I joined a local plein group. It was a real struggle to not feel overwhelmed. It was a bit of a challenge applying this to watercolour but I think it's finally coming to me. I'll keep reading, watching and evolving

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

HI Carol, I would suggest, if you are not using one, that when plein air painting use a viewfinder to locate a design, and to organize it on your paper before you start. It really helps with overwhelm. So much stuff to look at. Good luck.

[@pni2009]

Beautiful! Your videos have made me focus on the composition every time I’m in front of the canvas, thanks

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thank you. That makes me very happy to hear

[@jgtutors]

Love this lesson and the 3 tips, thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You're so welcome. Best wishes.

[@conniegray9108]

This demo pulled together many classes and years of instruction into a great understanding finally…I love how sparse you are with words…not any jabber that I hear from other instructors….I work with pastels and think this demo will help …I have a scene almost identical from our farm…..thank you for making a difference

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Good luck on your painting. Glad you enjoyed the video. All the best.

[@christinefischerart]

Another great tutorial on Alla Prima painting. Your brushwork and color is so reminiscent of Van Gogh, Cezanne and early Monet. thanks so much for your teaching.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much. Kind of you to say.

[@sandradodson540]

Beautiful Landscape and very informative demo. Thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome Sandra

[@sandradodson540]

I bought your book today and so far I am so happy I got it.@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition

[@evandegenfelder4554]

Love this painting, Ian; It's beautiful. I'm fixing to begin a landscape (not my strong suit, but I have some reference photos that are too compelling) and watching this has increased my confidence that an alla prima approach is the right one for the painting I have in mind. The three tips are excellent. I think many artists are guilty of trying 'fix' their paintings when, if they would just slow down and think, mistakes might be avoided. That's one of my biggest problems, so with these reminders ringing in my head, I'll begin! Thank you SO much!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Good luck Evan. All the best.

[@debraedmunds3649]

You took a simple scene and brought out the beauty of the various colors and composition. Slowing down has been my hardest achievement and this instruction gives me hope in achieving so much more! Can’t wait to paint!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thank you Debra. I am delighted you liked the video so much.

[@billpliske]

One of your best videos .. well done!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Glad you think so. All the best.

[@gretaklug]

Love the way you “flip” your brush strokes to blend in, avoiding sharp edges. You make it look easy.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thank you Greta. Glad you like it.

[@garysart]

Thank you Ian for another very interesting Video, thanks again

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Glad you enjoyed it Gary

[@marykahn6803]

I know I will be watching this again after I do the Color Course. It's interesting to watch this painting come alive and how Ian applies adding colors and yellows as he comes forward. One of these days, I think I will follow along with Ian and paint this myself. Fascinating tutorial. Beautiful painting. Thank you Ian for this video and the tips.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thank you Mary. I appreciate the kind comment. Best wishes and excited to have you in the color course.

[@jasonoliver7881]

I feel like as a beginner that what you are teaching us now will make more sense to me later as I gain more experience.

[@fernandoboavida1475]

Excellent painting. Excellent advice.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Glad you liked it. Thank you Fernando

[@katiesauceda1769]

Back from summer onto painting and you have given me a great push of valuable information and inspiration. Slow it down acknowledge the color palette and shapes and brush techniques. Thanks

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome Katie. Best wishes.

[@henriquejanuario881]

GREAT CLASS! THANKS FOR YOUR HELP!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You're very welcome!

[@louielouie4187]

Just wonderful videos one after the other, can't say enough about your teaching

[@juanamartinalbo9439]

You are a great teacher Ian! I have learn a lot following you, I and hope I can keep doing It! Thank you very much!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are very welcome. Thank you for watching

[@kramollag]

"Leave it" this just excellent advice! Many times a painted shape looks off until all it's corresponding shapes are painted. Thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome Mark. All the best.

[@tomhoang4895]

I really appreciated this video ! Giving me a lot of insights . Thank you so very much Ian Roberts!

[@lindab.6455]

I really enjoyed this one. Odd as it may sound, I felt like walking 'backward' in this tutorial was incredibly helpful to understand the -where to begin. The untouched trees and vegetation after the initial paint, has such a lively feel . I love this scene and painting. Thank you

[@dschmid8845]

This was helpful. This approach also works with “pure watercolour” watercolour painting, which I use frequently instead of the commonly used wet-on-wet approach. The result is a more “loose” and fresh looking watercolour. I think few people realize they can also use the alla prima approach.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

I think that is what most people like about watercolor. Is that loose look. They like it to look at, not that they can necessarily do it.

[@ronschlorff7089]

Yes, water media is good for certain things, like the detailed paintings I once did of wildlife in watercolor, gouache, and later acrylic. Most of those work will for any subject, but I prefer oils for landscapes, so much scope and very "forgiving" if you need to correct in the field especially doing plein air!@@IanRobertsMasteringComposition

[@roxypodlogar5661]

I’m intrigued by your comments as I am an intermediate watercolorist. I understand, I think pure watercolor, but why is wet into wet not pure watercolor. I too find these videos helpful as a watercolorist. Thanks!

[@dschmid8845]

@@roxypodlogar5661 I only became aware of the “pure watercolour” approach after I came across Andrew Pitt, a British artist, who in turn was influenced by Edward Wesson, who had a unique “loose” and fresh style of watercolour painting. Pitt refers to the style as “pure watercolour”, where you “paint a shape once and only once, and don’t go back” to avoid overworking and to keep the fresh look of the shape. You can start anywhere in the painting, unlike the wet-on-wet approach, where one must first wet the whole paper first, then apply the paint in layers, from light to dark colours. Pitt has a KZbin site where he demonstrates the approach. The term “loose” is frequently misunderstood by beginners. It is a word that only appeared around the 1960’s, but was practiced by some of the British watercolour artists already two centuries ago.

[@roxypodlogar5661]

Thank you for taking the time to reply. I’ve never heard of that method after years of painting so I will check it out further. Thank you! @@dschmid8845

[@jeffsayer2888]

Hi Ian great tutorial and explanation of alla prima,also loved the painting, kind regards Jeff

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much Jeff, for the video and painting compliment. All the best.

[@marywebb1138]

It's always a pleasure to watch you paint 😊

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much Mary

[@homayounazarnoush5699]

The best practice to show the difference of greens in a landscape that is the hardest part of a painting. Thank you so much for all your useful tips.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome. Thank you for watching.

[@cherylwetsi9021]

Fantastic tutorial. From a Great teacher. Cheryl Sydney AUSTRALIA

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks so much Cheryl

[@relaques666]

I love your style of teaching. So animated, so present, so real. That feel is what I aspire to find in painting. Being present!

[@mariarowden3751]

Another very helpful and clear video. You are a great teacher!

[@gregwing6409]

It's so funny over the years in watching your videos sometimes you hit on exactly what I need to learn next. Last week while painting Plein Air I nearly finished the painting in one fell swoop. Thanks so much! Cheers -Greg

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Makes me smile to think of that timing. Delighted to hear it. All the best Greg.

[@vassanicolaou2475]

Thank you Ian. I love the way you describe what to do in simple terms and you also show this in your excellent demonstration. You know, I’ve come across so many different approaches to landscape painting in oils and although it’s fascinating to watch all these different styles, it can also become very confusing for a beginner like myself. haven’t tried your approach yet but I definitely will . I love the freshness and the simplicity. And the results look great! Thank you for your generosity.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thank you for the kind comment and I am so glad you like my videos. Hoping you all the best on your artistic journey. Ian.

[@beckyhofer4328]

You’re an outstanding teacher!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you Becky. I really appreciate your saying so. All the best.

[@susansumnerroberts9617]

Such a great teacher. Thank you.

[@andreawoods6277]

Very beautiful feeling to this painting. The mottled foreground often gives me trouble. Thank you for breaking down the process so well.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

My pleasure Andrea. All the best.

[@leslielevan2947]

I love this one, Ian. A little more impressionistic than your usual demos. Right up my street. Les in Bristol.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thanks so much Les.

[@janesoncanvas8337]

You have given us a gem of a video! You’ve shared some very specific points and I’m grateful! Thanks!!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome Jane. Thank you for watching

[@michaellavelle9943]

Excellent tutorial! Just the sort of advice I was looking for. Thanks for a very helpful video

[@andrewbellavie795]

I love painting alla prima, just go for it!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

agreed. It can be very freeing.

[@oliverhill113]

Wow Ian! You've certainly created a lovely painting from what looked like an insignificant photo.👏👍 Many thanks for the video.🙏🙂

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome Oliver. Glad you liked the final painting

[@anthonyandrade2536]

Such a good soul and great artist! Thank you Ian.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much Anthony. All the best.

[@TeineUaine]

"Build forward.." Lightbulbs! Thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you. Glad to hear it.

[@BirchBrook]

Thank for the step by step demonstration.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome. Glad you liked it

[@fatherburning358]

Your pragmatic approach to solving what others complicate is so very much appreciated and valued. Thankyou Sir

[@24cts]

Alla Prima painting is my favorite! Thanks for the demo and just 3 easy tips!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are so welcome. I am glad you liked it

[@Bright-It]

Like a good wine. Thank you so much for all great demonstrations. 👏

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much. All the best.

[@adriannacook313]

Hi Ian, I've been really benefiting from your videos, which break down artistic processes in such a clear and logical way. Your guidance has helped me understand the importance of shapes and values. While I know your focus is on brush painting, have you ever thought about sharing lessons for working with oil pastels? There's a real shortage of learning materials for this medium, and I think your teaching style would make it a fun and valuable addition to our art practice. Thanks again for all you do! Warm regards, Minh

[@mikerosario7358]

hi Ian , i enjoy your demos ,your info is very help ful and puts me on the right path for my journey as an artist .Thanks much Mike R

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Great to hear! Delighted that you find it helpful.

[@nickrodis6862]

Thank you Ian Roberts

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You're very welcome Nick

[@RK-Schlueter]

Great demo! Love your palette! Feeling inspired! Thank you!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

glad you feel inspired. Thank you and all the best.

[@joycehuang7644]

So much information. I watched it three time and learned more everytime. Thanks Ian.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Glad it was helpful. Thank you Joyce. All the best.

[@berolinastrassmann]

Wow, this was amazing! Thank you so much. I am a watercolour painter and found this very useful. Different medium but the essence is the same. Good tips at the end: slow down, let it be, move on. So helpful, as I fuzz about endlessly. Love your enthusiasm and clarity. Thanks again

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

that is great. Yes, this can be applied to any medium including watercolor. Glad you enjoyed it. Best wishes.

[@maliequizhu6614]

Really enjoy your excellent step by step demo!!! 💕💕💕It’s an amazing painting too!!! 👍👍👍

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Delighted you enjoyed it. All the best.

[@judylearnstopaint1040]

This video came at the perfect time for me as a reminder not to overwork your painting. Thanks!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much Judy.

[@cobaltbluearts]

Great advice and a lovely painting. Personally I find the values are more important than the colours and as I'm very abstract anyway I can afford to play fast and loose with the hues. 100% it's important to enjoy the process, if you do that, you will repeat and experiment and come up with something new and funky

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

That's the funny thing about color. Hue, the think we normally call "the color" is as you say really the least important if you can get the value and intensity right. Best wishes.

[@georgewhitacre8276]

I'm a new subscriber and I have to tell you, you're style and explanation are excellent! The videos I've watched so far, have helped answer some questions I needed answers too. I paint with a similar style and fight with color issues at times. I love when you said, 'slow down and enjoy the process'. I'm definitely a fan and I will watch every video you put up. I have some catching up to do on your past content. So happy I found you're channel!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

thanks so much George. Delighted you found me and that you're enjoying the videos. All the very best.

[@barbaramurray4627]

Thank you so much for this session. I picked my last painting, which was done plein air, to death. I'll be very mindful of your advice on my next outing.

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Good luck and have fun with it. All the best.

[@MM-pd7dx]

fantastic videos as always. Thank you for sharing your tips and tricks. Beautiful painting 🎨

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Thank you so much. All the best.

[@annap214]

So Professionally done..the colours are so clean, harmonious, and pleasing to the eye…..definitely needs tons of experience to get to this point…thank you for sharing this beautiful piece~*

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome Anna. Delighted you liked it.

[@nettacanfi5475]

Beautiful work. Thanks for explaining the process

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

you're very welcome. Best wishes.

[@beverlyglover-wood3247]

Hi Ian, this is a super demo. What great tips. I have never started at the back and come forward and I am going to try it. I just returned from painting in the Lake District and those landscapes will be perfect for this. The problem for me is that I paint acrylic, and I always feel rushed if I try to finish in one go. Do you ever paint in acrylic? If so, would you, at some point, do a demonstration in alla prima with acrylic paints? Once again, thanks for another enjoyable, helpful 13 minutes!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

HI Beverly, glad you liked the video and Lake District photos sound like they could work well. I have painted in acylic. I find plein air I just have to spray the canvas and palette a lot to make sure the paint stays workable. Marcia Burtt is the best acrylic painter I know. If you go to her website she has an instructional video there on how to paint in acrylic. Have a look at that. I'm sure you will find out some helpful ways of working. Good luck.

[@beverlyglover-wood3247]

Thank you Ian for your reply and for the name of Marcia Burtt. I will definitely look her up! Best wishes, Beverly

[@HigginsArt]

Thank u for your inspiration

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

It's my pleasure

[@mireillebeyrouthi7385]

Amazing demonstration and great lesson thank you❤❤

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

You are so welcome. Thank you for watching

[@williammorrison5428]

As always, thank you for the video and for all the helpful information you provide. It is always a great pleasure to watch your channel and am very glad to have found it. Have tried oil painting off and on over the years and have been trying to paint more frequently now. I also follow another painter Chris Fornatero on youtube. He has mentioned you as one of the painters he enjoys following. Thanks again!

[@IanRobertsMasteringComposition]

Delighted you found the video helpful William. I've never actually met Chris, but he was from CA originally and we have discussed painting together next time he visits. With best wishes.