Powerful Tools for Composition with Mitchell Albala (Ep.104)

Welcome to the conversation with Mitchell Albala.

Widely recognized for his expertise in composition and color, Albala is the author of two must-read books  Landscape Painting and The Landscape Painter’s Workbook.  

And that’s where we’re going to spend the bulk of today’s interview. We are jumping straight into the heart of his process. You’ll discover the transformative power of the BIG IDEA and learn how it shapes his approach to painting. We’ll also take a deep dive into composition, including a crucial step many artists overlook before they start their value studies. And we’ll explore why the format - the square or rectangle, you choose for your painting is far from arbitrary—it can make or break your composition.

If your goal is to improve your understanding of composition, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Podcast Art Club: Find your Ad Free Feature here.

Extended Cut Bonus (Art Club)

In the bonus segment, we turn our focus to color. Mitchell shares insights on why your approach to color might be missing key elements and how to build a more comprehensive strategy. Listen here!

Learn more about Albala:

WEBSITE / BLOG / YOUTUBE / INSTAGRAM /  WORKSHOPS / BOOKS

Links Mentioned in the Show:

• Video Lesson: Exploring Composition through Shape and Notan
• The Landscape Painter’s Guide to Selecting Reference Photos (Differentiation)
• Development of an Abstract Landscape (In the interview we’re talking about a foggy lighthouse.)

More Great Links:

• Book Excerpt: Simplification and Massing in Landscape Painting
• The Power of Color Grouping in Landscape Painting
• Getting the Light Right: The Power of the Color Study
• Exercise: Simplification and Massing in Landscape with Limited Values
• What Color is Your Underpainting? The Monochromatic and Two-Color Methods

The next 20for20 Art Challenge is coming soon, and registration is open! Nothing starts quite yet, but you can save your spot today. During Prep Week, you’ll choose a project, gather your materials, and make a plan for 20 days of consistent art-making. If you’ve been looking for a reason to get back to your art, we’d love to have you. Learn more and join us today!

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