In some ways oil painting can be just plain fun. Like coloring in a coloring book as a child, the inspiration behind creativity can be as simple as the need to doodle and experiment with color. Along that line of thought, what are some of your all time favorite oil colours to paint with?
I love primary colors. My living room is decorated in primary blues, reds, and yellows. I drive a bright red car. I also tend to paint using primary oil colours. In college, at times when my palette consisted only of these bright colours straight from the tube, I was prematurely criticized for lacking an understanding of color theory. Ha! I soon dispelled those assumptions by demonstrating a vast understanding of color theories of old masters, and by demonstrating my own.
In any event, there are many times when I feel the need to express myself with pure primary color. I find bright, primary and secondary colors to be pure and straightforward. Furthermore, the most dramatic display of the theory of complimentary colors can be seen best when primary colors are juxtaposed with the opposing secondary ones.
I do have to admit that there are times that such basic crayon-like colors seem quite elementary to me. In a more sophisticated yet organic sense, my all time favorite oil colour is indigo blue. Luckily for me, I am able to notice and appreciate indigo just about anywhere in nature. The deep, haunting allure of indigo seems ever present in an evening sky. Whether the weather is gloomy or fair, if there are any clouds in the sky there will prove to be at least a hint of this magnificent hue contrasting the twilight. Deep, yet vibrant indigo is also often the foundation for the Atlantic Ocean. No matter what time of day, indigo is always forming the shadows beneath the sea and amongst the waves. Just about anywhere I look, I can see indigo making its presence known.
There is always indigo blue on my palette for all of my paintings, even when working with bright colours. I am fascinated by its nature. Perhaps I notice and appreciate it so often because I am so amazed by its beauty, versatility, and resilience. Often beyond words, it is certain that I have an innate appreciation for indigo blue. I feel fortunate to be able to express my adoration for colors such as indigo through oil painting.
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