Landscapes
Artist
Craig Witte
Category
Painting
Most of my paintings are inspired by interior spaces, so venturing into the realm of landscapes presents an entirely new set of challenges. Unlike the contained and familiar settings of a room, landscapes are teeming with a multitude of elements. Trees, roads, clouds, sky, grass, buildings—the list of objects goes on and on. Each element demands attention, and the sheer volume can easily become overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost in the minutiae, worrying about every tiny detail and losing sight of the bigger picture. In order to navigate this complexity, I’ve had to develop a different approach. Instead of focusing on each individual component, I step back—sometimes literally—and view the scene with a softer gaze. By squinting my eyes, I let the details blur into broader shapes and colors. This technique helps me to simplify the scene, capturing the essence of the landscape rather than getting bogged down by every leaf or blade of grass. This approach allows me to see the harmony and flow of the natural world, translating it onto the canvas in a way that feels both authentic and manageable. It’s not about replicating every detail with photographic precision, but about conveying the overall atmosphere and feeling of the scene. By focusing on the interplay of light, shadow, and color, I can create a more cohesive and expressive representation of the landscape. In essence, painting landscapes has taught me the value of perspective—both literally and figuratively. It’s a reminder that sometimes, to truly capture the beauty of a scene, you need to take a step back and appreciate the broader view. This method has not only improved my landscape paintings but has also enriched my overall approach to art, allowing me to see and represent the world in a more holistic and dynamic way.