How I turn a picture into a painting

As a landscape artist, one of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the opportunity to bring my imagination to life on the canvas. This is especially true when it comes to transforming a dull or uninspiring picture into a work of art that is both beautiful and evocative.

If you find yourself staring at a dull or lifeless picture, don't despair! With a little imagination and creativity, you can turn it into a stunning painting that captures the beauty and essence of the scene.

One approach that I find particularly effective is to look for elements in the picture that can be emphasized or transformed. For example, if there is a gully in the picture, you could paint it as a meandering river, complete with rippling water and reflections of the surrounding landscape.

Above is the reference picture my painting " Riverside Reverie" based on. Below is my painting "Riverside Reverie".

Another way to add life and atmosphere to a dull scene is to play with the lighting. For instance, you could add the warm and vibrant colors of a sunset, transforming a drab and uninteresting landscape into a scene full of warmth and energy. This can be achieved by layering colors, using glazes, and playing with contrast to create a sense of depth and vibrancy.

The key to transforming a dull picture into a stunning painting is to use your imagination and creativity. Think outside the box, and don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and approaches. With time and practice, you'll develop the skills and intuition to create truly breathtaking works of art that capture the essence of the scene in ways that the original picture could never have done.