Unlocking the Power of Intense Colors

My Journey with Bold Blues

Painting with intense colors can feel intimidating, but let me tell you—it’s worth it. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in my art journey is that progress over perfection is the key to discovering your true potential.

Let me share a story about the first time I painted with bold colors, specifically blue. 🌊

I was working with a simple color palette of blue and yellow. But when I say blue, I mean intense, vibrant shades like Prussian Blue, Ultramarine Blue Ink, Teal, and Prussian Blue Ink, balanced with a creamy Yellow and touches of Viridian Green. This combination became the foundation of one of my most loved paintings, ‘Answered Prayers.’

This painting marked the beginning of my color harmony journey—and taught me how to paint with more than just a brush (a story for another time, lol). It’s also a piece that collectors continue to ask about. Bold blues, when done right, create statement pieces that elevate any space. 💙

So how can you create using bold blues in your work?

1️⃣ Get to Know Your Blues
Take stock of the blues in your studio. Which is the lightest? Which is the darkest? In my studio, Waterfall Green (a soft, light teal) is my lightest blue, and Indigo is my darkest. Everyone else falls somewhere in between.

2️⃣ Choose Your Highlights Carefully
Pair your blues with a neutral, creamy yellow for a softer highlight, or go dramatic with white as your lightest tone, as I did in ‘Gabriel’s Message’ here.

3️⃣ Balance the Contrast
If you’re using yellow in your palette, consider adding green to soften the contrast between the blue and yellow. Green acts as a natural bridge, creating a more harmonious feel.

Painting with bold, intense colors like blue can feel intimidating, but once you embrace them, the results are stunning. They’ll bring your work to life and captivate viewers with their richness and depth.

So, grab your paints and explore your bold blue palette—your next masterpiece might be waiting for you. 🎨