Plein-Air Painting Tip: Grouping Tonal Values

[@basenkaua]

I would never find anything interesting worth painting about a little house like this with all the stuff scattered around in disorder. But you find this place and transform it into a wonderful scene on paper, eye-catching, warm and cosy, so pleasant to look at. Incredible! And also that should be your great artistic skill level, but that's absolutely fantastic how any of your pictures looks so realistic, almost like a photo, and that's being painted with brushes that look so much bigger than the details you create with them! It's both overwhelming and breathtaking.

[@lucygray6162]

'Scattered around in Disorder?' Looks fine to me. The only thing disruptive is that jarring blue trash container.

[@carolepivarnik9316]

@@lucygray6162 I suspect Llubov means something more like "life's random arrangement" rather than some deliberately arranged scene.

[@lucygray6162]

@@carolepivarnik9316 I suspect Llubov said exactly what she meant, and she was quite rude about someone else's home.

[@aztcqn]

In any case, being able to see beyond the objects and see shapes and values filtered through an artist eye for design is the key not the so much the subject. An experienced artist can lift the mundane into sublime with simple tools.

[@janawatercolor]

Got side tracked by this nice discussion:-) Have to agree that James finds painting subjects from places where I would never ever think of painting

[@sitron7224]

I've been mesmerized by this guy's paintings since before I could read, just looking at all the beautiful illustrations in Dinotopia for hours. To find out in my late teens, in the middle of an art block, that he has a youtube channel? Where he shares his wisdom for free? Just wonderful! Thanks, man

[@AB-hr4qg]

he drew the art for dinotopia????

[@VTun1ng]

@@AB-hr4qg Dinotopia is actually his book and yes, illustrations too. And if you are familiar with those illustrations you probably realize that painting this house for him is like eating breakfast for you.

[@hanzflackshnack1158]

Same! I bought Imaginative Realism twice because I gave the first copy to my nephew. Had no idea this existed... It's like finding out Batman teaches self defense classes

[@45067daddymac]

Interesting how you take a mundane looking scene and turn it into such a neat looking painting.

[@IPpainting]

Thats the reason why light and composition makes it or breaks it

[@1974gladiateur]

David McIntosh Yes I was thinking the same. By changing the colors of the scene.

[@satchelyork]

Everyday stuff makes way better paintings than those with dramatic skies, etc. Often someone thinks they are great for doing a dramatic sky and it actually looks super cheesy and amateurish. Fairfield Porter was a master at everyday landscapes that look super fresh.

[@spoondola]

Steve E. Brown this is an old comment but thanks for mentioning fairfield porter bc i googled him and he is amazing

[@geslinam9703]

It’s the light!

[@MJ-hq6zn]

There's something so calming about his videos. His painting technique, his voice, his editing style - everything is so peaceful to watch. I often watch to get inspired but it helps me calm myself after a tiring day or experience as well.

[@ChaosOrZen]

Will we ever get to see Jeanette's art featured. She seems so lovey. Would love to hear her story and see more of her art. Wonderful video. Thank you for sharing.

[@JamesGurney]

Yes, thanks to popular demand, we made a video about Jeanettes art: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpSZdnyLmpJ1bqssi=74hc9LC88EmL7IzF

[@ProximoK]

You should be given some kind of award for giving so much of your time and thoughts to the public like this.

[@tfg_8564]

my mans a living photoshop

[@Dundere_de_Duke]

Well your not wrong.

[@ServeTheBeaver]

That’s like the person who found a 💾 and said “someone 3D printed a save button” It kind of works the other way, chronologically

[@AA-pv6mi]

@@ServeTheBeaver is that a floppy disk

[@cjj7107]

@@ServeTheBeaver that's hilarious 😂🤣😂

[@someonesomething9103]

@@ServeTheBeaver Lolol exactly, I mean Photoshop is just a tool. Like a brush. The artist is still the one that paints using the software.

[@maithilym4717]

I have been blessed with this channel by the gods of youtube algorithm and i feel lucky.

[@EvermoreisTimeless]

You are an amazing artist and teacher this is amazing

[@danthomas6587]

I got more outta this the second or is it the third time I watched this? James's masterful handling of value masses is always good to watch.

[@tamirerez2547]

If I had to draw a painting of this small size, I would never even dare think of a 2 cm wide brush ... Your ability to draw so many precise details with a wide brush is simply amazing and surprising.

[@mariapeagler2667]

Nice touch to include the Q&A, and love seeing Jeanette and her work. Thank you James.

[@crustydog1666]

The house and surrounding area has a dream like quality. It's hard to explain, but is so pleasing to look at.

[@KitKatToeBeans]

The painting looks so real, with such intricate detail, that it’s almost as if James is painting the actual house through his drawing at the end 🖌

[@artconte]

The drawing, the elegant way of adding textures, the story. Absolutely love your videos, James.

[@paolovf]

I have to say, this is one of the most progressive art channels out there - really feels like your pushing things into new and exciting territory. Great video

[@드로잉제이]

영상이 너무 재미있어서 몰입해서 봤습니다 영어를 몰라서 알아듣진 못하지만 그림 그리는 과정을 보는것 만으로도 충분히 즐겁습니다 수채화 물감과 과슈를 사용 한것같은데 그림이 정말 좋습니다 작은 그림인데도 섬세하게 묘사해서 감탄 했습니다 It's a really nice picture and a good video.😄😊

[@JamesGurney]

시청 해주셔서 감사합니다. 비디오의 주요 요점은 사진을 디자인 할 때 밝고 어두운 톤을 사용하는 방법에 관한 것입니다. 어두운 색조와 밝은 색조를 간단한 모양으로 결합하면 전체적인 효과가 더 단순 해집니다.

[@kayra1215]

he's the only painter i could watch for hours,,because its literally beautiful !

[@hunyotiago1271]

Your demonstration is so relaxing sir

[@TheMarkEH]

What a privilege it is to watch you at work and to hear your advice. Thank you for sharing your talent and experience on such a regular basis.

[@rynelic]

Your paintings look like actual photos with an artsy filter

[@heyryanisonx3141]

Art as an elevation of reality

[@ceooftheboys9560]

His outro is so satisfying ngl

[@lucilliastreusvogel]

I just love your paintings. They look like how I would remember my dreams.

[@dreamersilverfox]

Love the red filter tip!

[@gendoikari6062]

For the second time, I've gone out to capture some sensible, and both times I come back empty handed...maybe a little creator's block. You are a great source of inspiration for me...!

[@sitruchsral]

This video has changed my entire perspective. Thank you for producing such an amazing piece of content that is so informative. I’m truly inspired.

[@normg2242]

I guess when it comes to showing or omitting details, one very important rule s not to put strange or funny items in the picture which you would have to explain to the viewer of the painting. A friend of mine once saw a square-ish cloud when he was painting on location and put it in his painting. Now he has to explain it every time someone looks at the painting...lol !!! Awesome video - again, and I took lots of notes -again ... 👍

[@Gregasaurus]

James, you are the GOAT. Love your work, inspiring and appreciate true knowledge and craftsmanship.

[@georgechilidis8446]

I subscribed to your channel James because I can’t draw a straight line without my drafting tools. I admire people that inspire me ✍️

[@samman9864]

it’s so impressive that he makes such detailed pieces considering the limited amount of control water color gives the artist

[@GuenevereSchwien]

I really enjoyed seeing this in more real time and great explanations. As always you make great paints and excellent tutorial videos.

[@rawheadrex]

Wow , the art of looking . Im totally into painting again after watching this genius at work

[@personthatmakesstuff4186]

Love this! I have the hardest time trying to find a subject that interests me. You just made this so interesting!

[@noogiesm]

thank you mr. gurney for the great vid!! i love how you manage to make "mundane" scenes into lovely paintings & studies, it inspires me to look for art everywhere i go

[@marioalejandro7549]

Thank you for not forgetting us beginners and explain the terminology that are new for us. Great, great video!!!! Bless you and the talent God have you. 🙏🏼

[@valerieannshort7109]

This is beautiful! James, you are just amazing!

[@shintapp]

I love how you capture scenery near you. It just adds charm to the picture

[@carolepivarnik9316]

You know, if you ever decided to do painting on location workshops you could probably charge anything you wanted and they'd fill in five minutes and I'd (try to) be first in line to sign up! Every one of your short videos is a gem full of art wisdom. Thanks for being so generous with your knowledge and for helping my painting so much over the years, James!

[@Cruspitt]

One ir the best videos. The lenth of 15 minutes shows the whole process and it is mor complete. Better than the ones of a couple of minutes. Thank you anyway from Spain.

[@jess5085]

The red filter to see monochromatically is awesome!!!

[@mkilner]

Really enjoyed this!...that red filter Great tip!...better than a squint!...that sienna roof brush stroke was delishous, and im chuffed you mentioned the British 'wheelie Bin'...Great stuff! 🙂👏🏻🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@desleykakoulidisgallaway3382]

Loved Janet’s lovely fresh painting too- beautiful 👏🏻work Janet- great day for it 😘

[@Lauragld]

I am constantly amazed at your ability to spot an interesting painting where most of us would keep hunting :) thanks for your wonderful lessons :)

[@richardfuchs5131]

You’re starting to peak my interest in combining gouache into my watercolors. I’ve used white gouache for highlights and when there’s been a bleed into something that I wanted to leave white paper without using masking fluid. But the more I watch the more interested in it I get. Nice work.

[@pchabanowich]

You’ve astonished me with this! Your work is grand. Thank you. The inspiration flows into me.

[@galewhiteman2047]

After busy work days I love catching up on your paintings. I get so caught up in watching you paint...so relaxing. Thank you!!

[@deborahbushrowland6143]

These videos are such a joy! I love every one of them!

[@gulagwarlord]

That Bouveret painting is one of my favorites! Nice study you painted there too.

[@souldiver6620]

Love your work Mr Gurney. Also enjoy your books on art making. It’s awesome to see you out painting and choosing your subjects.

[@virginiarinkel7544]

Great video! Love the massing of values and your explanations as you go along.

[@Positive_Pepper]

I love your work and have followed you since I was a child. It's so great that technology has made it possible to now witness you working in real time instead of just wondering how you work by pouring over your books. Thank you for posting!

[@jaswas77]

I love this format of video. Thank you for sharing your skills.

[@shanilwijesinghe5201]

that is the best sign-off I've ever seen in a KZbin video

[@candylanes6462]

Please don't take this the wrong way but you guys are so cute! She was precious putting her brushes together ❤

[@JamesGurney]

Thank you. She's a little camera shy but I'll try to get a few quotes in future.

[@valerieannshort7109]

Who are the 38 people who didn't like this? You must be a master painter? Let's see your work!

[@simiwazhere]

I am impressed! Looking at the preview I did not think of being in front of a watercolor but as the composition took shape I found myself more and more amazed. You are really talented. So far the best demonstration of the deeper meaning of painting en plein air found on the Tube. Thank you! Again, thank you.

[@mrirurfkjsdo]

Everything great here as usual, buddy.... but you catched in a first class manner, the plastic tarpaulin on car and trailer, and the trash can !!! really good !!!! Always a pleasure to see you at 'work', James !! THX ++

[@Jack-qd3xo]

Thanks again as always! I'm really trying to focus in on simplifying my values because I have a problem with my forms, colours and values getting muddy so this will help a lot!

[@pirroohullahshah1685]

I have never commented on your video before, you are my favorite artist. I follow your videos

[@mayrln]

You never fail to amaze me. fantastic work and thank you for the tips.

[@yidesign77]

your great artist............. Happiness is in your paintings.

[@robynjorde5592]

Your videos keep getting better and better. Thanks so much for making them!

[@c.m.1311]

Such a wealth of valuable information--really love how you explain your decisions in why you chose the subject and the exploration of value. Also thank you for all the helpful links to materials. So glad Jeanette's painting made an appearance at the end too! Thank you!!!

[@ShahanoorMamun]

your painting looks real.... just marvellous.... keep going...

[@JohnFishman]

Watching your videos always inspires me to stop watching videos and go paint. Thanks for all the great content!

[@ahgahgha1446]

i really like your art. i hope to be as good as you some day.

[@gambit1001]

Hi James, I'm new to painting (acrylic) myself and feel fortunate to have found your channel. Your explanations of the relationships of shapes and shades/tones has been giving me lots to think about that is already helping me enjoy and have personal success in my amateur painting. Also I see the appeal that outdoor painting, and it will hopefully draw me to try other mediums such as watercolor or oils. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your beautiful work and painting techniques!

[@JamesGurney]

Cool, thanks

[@tghw3659]

I love your drawings. too much cozy🌌 It's like lying alone in a vast windswept patch, looking up at the sky, and blowing quietly as the clouds move along. I can't use Eilish well but I wanted to express that I'm in love with your art🌝 so wonderful

[@1974gladiateur]

Pretty nice mix of light and dark.

[@sylhayes8152]

You put up a great video here. Very natural and pleasant

[@Bartyron]

Your explanations are so clear.

[@MDCampbell]

Hi James! I'm still a fairly new KZbin artist, but been a fan of your work since I discovered Dinotopia in the 90's and recall standing in the book store enamored by the detail and care that went into each painting. I still look at it in awe. Thank you for the years of inspiration and I'm thrilled to find you, now, here on YT and your wonderful videos. Really enjoyed this one and the recent "How to Start" video. Great stuff! Best regards from Boston. ~ Mark

[@JamesGurney]

Thanks, Mark, and I'm glad you found your way to the channel.

[@najeebbaterdouk9253]

I had great joy watching this - thank you and bless you.

[@antonioblanco3086]

Nice Q&A Mr Gurney! Thanks a lot

[@therupoe]

Thanks much! I always get lost in that early stage where everything is messy. It’s so far away from what I picture in my head and I struggle to bridge the gap. I’d love to see more of your portrait work!

[@satchelyork]

Stop picturing what is in your head. Go back and look, really keenly observe your subject. Not what you think is there or what you want it to look like. Often a totally unexpected shape or color is actually the right one. Look like a baby basically, no assumptions or expectations

[@trishfindlater1236]

Brilliant tutorial… what a terrific subject , your composition design in this little painting is terrific, my favourite bit is the way you painted the wheely bin with its lid highlights and those two dash’s of blue on the edge to denote its plastic surface… I also thought the way you showed past artists work to demonstrate the tonal darks and lights and how these tonal vales compose a really good and aesthetically pleasing composition. Thank you, I have subscribed to your KZbin Kindest Regards Trish Findlater artist Ireland

[@antoniogilart]

Another good artwork. Very inspiring for me, I'm staring in gouache world.

[@rmaloney9976]

A new video posts and I say yeah to myself .. they are so enjoyable and informative.

[@canadaverydry]

wowww! Beautiful!! I am in love with urbanscapes!

[@bocolewish]

Just starting my own gouache exploration. My favorite drawing teacher in the 70's at CCAC in Oakland was Don DeViverois from Sebastopol. "Drawing From Nature".

[@wingtsun81]

Yes! You got into my neck of the woods!

[@kyletwebster]

Always educational ... and entertaining! Thank you, James.

[@michellez1799]

I love your book! I was so happy to find you on KZbin.

[@jimikeigher6208]

Thanks again for the tips. Really appreciate the value info about the illustrators, that I can really have fun with. Happy Holidays and REALLY appreciate your continual help. JiMi

[@BaboonTeeth]

Sebastopol! Wow I'm far from Sonoma County now but I love happening upon videos of home. Wonderful video!

[@PleinAirAdventureswithTezDower]

Loved it, Ur a Master James 🎨😊

[@karlkanner3467]

Thanks, James! Love seeing your process and paintings :)

[@TooleyPeter]

I know I'm late to the party but this is the first painting where I said to myself, okay, James is obviously a genius.

[@tjdewet2868]

Just go for it and put the whole brush tip in your mouth tho smooth it out with spit, I do it all the time 😂Someone once asked what the heck I was doing... me: "a special brush alignment technique"

[@davenik1999]

Which is ok, as long as you are CERTAIN that your media are non-toxic. Most student-grade paints are, but some pigments can be quite harmful when ingested.

[@tjdewet2868]

@@davenik1999 thank you Dave, always use discretion and great caution when putting anything in my mouth... Vegan, un-fragranced, cadmium free, titanium dioxide free, lead free, basically free from anything that is harmful. My "whole brush in the mouth alignment technique" is used on a water wet only brush to shape the point... I like it sharp😉 and damp for certain styles👍🖌️🎨 just keep painting xx

[@TheMediaKnights]

This is how Goya died

[@hobi_sflower9593]

Lmao i have tendencies to do that sometimes which i shouldn't have because i never do it 👁️👄👁️

[@busykat6278]

i love your channel, binge watching your videos and learning some things at the samme timee

[@tallpixels]

Thank you so much for these free videos.

[@AbdullahAlsalihi]

thank you so much for sharing this with us.

[@GrandmaMuggy]

I am in awe when I watch you..

[@drawwithchris]

Beautiful painting and really valuable narration as usual. Focusing on value grouping is a powerful way to see and start a painting. Thanks for reminding us about Pyle and Brangwyn too. Absolute Legends and must study for young artists. 🙌

[@2B87]

Top notch content as always Mr. Gurney. Thanks alot. I always appreciate your approach - entertaining, inspirational and educational. I hope you both have a nice holiday.

[@jackasmile6517]

I found your channel at my suggestion like week ago and fell in love in your paintings! Also your videos are so calm and I like to watch and listen in the background while doing stuff I just want to thank you for your videos! Have a great holidays!

[@isatis6]

Thank you for teaching your talents!! I appreciate it and am learning alot.

[@zarkan1338]

Hi, I'm from Russia and I don't speak English well . I really like your videos . Thank you

[@manishascraftideas3129]

learning a lot...thanks to you james

[@xony8261]

i loveeee this channel