[Figure 2.9] “Those Gloomy Hours” final image.

10) At this point, I decide I am finished. I choose to leave some areas less detailed because I don’t want every area to get equal attention. To become a strong point of focus, the castle and main mountain must be well tackled with all kinds of details. Other parts, especially the mountains in the background, have minimum detailing because I want them to be at a distance, and they must recede into the background; additional details would just bring them forward and ruin any sense of depth. Figure 2.9 shows my final image. Every part works the way I visualized in my original concept.

Throughout the creation of this image, I did not use a lot of different brushes, but what I did use served my purpose perfectly. Using brushes unnecessarily only makes things look overdone and busy, often disturbing the viewer. Artwork needs to be straight, simple, and to the point.

"Highs And Lows."

Insights
The Creative Process
Both my creative process and my approach to art are traditional. I work straight and pure and, to a major extent, I adhere to the basic rules of art. I start by thinking about something specific. I look for a subject that will give me enough creative freedom and a mood to capture[md]something that will get the viewer involved. For me, this is a natural process. When I plan my images, the most important elements I consider are composition, light, mood, and story. I also want to make sure that I create a visual path so the viewer’s eye will travel across the painting but still come back to the main focal point; I love to have a strong point-of-focus for the viewer. After I make my initial sketch, where I take care of basic compositional elements, I add my ground colors and work in lights and darks. I work on the entire canvas at one time because that gives a sense of harmony to the image. I address tones and values rather than colors. I also try to capture air and atmosphere. I finish the image, layer by layer, and work to maintain a consistent mood throughout. Also, I leave many areas in an image unfinished, or roughly done, so the viewer can use his own imagination about it.

"Night Life - City Scape."

Favorite Features
Painter is a beautiful software program that has great features for artists and painters with a traditional art background. I usually use its Oil Brushes, Palette Knives, and Pens; the thick oil impastos are just like the real thing.

Timesaving Tips
I always work in separate layers. This allows me creative freedom and saves a lot of time when things go wrong or need to be changed — which can happen at any point — according to the needs of the project.

Finished Work
I try to make sure that I keep the actual tones, colors, and contrasts and that I don’t crop the original image. Also, whenever possible, I like to avoid unnecessary thick, dark framing. The work must be shown with the name and Web site of the artist, along with all due credits. My finished work is usually published on my website, as well as in various online forums and galleries. I sometimes create prints of my work, and I have plans to exhibit my digitally painted prints along with my traditional canvas paintings. I am looking forward to finding enough free time to do this soon!