I tell this story often – it’s about art and seeing.
When we look at anything coming toward us from a distance the first thing we notice is its colour. As the object becomes nearer we start to see shape or silhouette; as it comes even closer we start to see the lines that not only describe the silhouette, but also smaller details like the eye or buttons depending what you look at. When the object is close enough we start to see its texture.
Everything you look at consists of all four these elements: colour, shape, line and texture, but different emphasis creates different styles due to different aims and tastes of the artist.
The sequence in which we notice these elements can be used to create different effect on the audience and speaks to the intention of the artist.
Emphasis on the right colours may get your attention whereas good shape can stir emotions, line can convey style whiles trying to describe meaning – and a focus on texture will inevitably align with being detail oriented.
So, colour is my best friend. And I love a great line…
Barend Paul Barnard 