All Things Fine Art

The use of Notan and three value planning is a regular tool I use in the development of a painting.  I simply could not  do without them. I hope you use them as well. Recently, I was made aware that a new app is available for those of us who have Android phones (it also works with Mac systems). It is an incredible tool and works better than the older Value Viewer that was a Mac system app. only. 

The new app named, Notanizer, conveniently converts photos into two, three, or four different levels. Since some subjects are best described with three or more values  rather than notan (2 values), Notanizer accommodates this with ease.  The app is priced at only a $1.99 via PayPal on line at www.notanizer.com.

In the images below, I wanted to check to make sure that enough contrast was evident between the ducks and the background. I set the Notanizer for 4X (see below). The results showed me clearly that the female duck (top left of the threesome and just begun) would not contrast enough with the background bushes. The bushes were too light for her soft tan colors as their values were the same. This information was helpful in bringing to my attention that I needed to darken and cool further the background as I painted the female. The finished painting will be exhibited on the website after completion in several weeks time from the publishing date of this blog post.

Painting in progress.

Notan of painting in progress as seen above.

Often, as we become involved with our work, we do not see something as readily as we should. This can be caused by becoming physically or visually weary from too much focusing. This app tool is a short cut to "seeing" issues that may not be recognized during a painting session.  I find it especially helpful when I am painting en plein air. I have cataracts and am finding it more and more difficult to register values correctly in bright light. This tool helps to keep me on track.

Information about notan, what it is and how it is used,  is available in earlier issues of this blog. Additionally, a comprehensive description with examples of the Notanizer app, is available at www.Notanizer.com and in a blog written by artist, Mitchell Albala at  https://blog.mitchalbala.com

This photo shows my small 8x10" pochade box complete with turps, paints, brushes, clips, and panels.  In addition, I carry a small bag w/ some paper towels, Liquin, bug spray and sunscreen in it plus my collapsible stool slung over my shoulder for sitting.  Total weight is under 5 pounds which makes for easy walking.

 Liquin Original on my palette

Frequently I am asked about Liquin by my oil painting students who want to know what it is and how it should be used. I’ll offer a simple explanation here and provide a referral for information that should answer your questions in depth.

 First and foremost, Liquin is an oil painting medium. When added to pigment it alters the viscosity of paint for various purposes and promotes drying. There are a number of Liquin “types”, each having properties that provide unique results when mixed with pigment such as for glazing, painting fine detail and impasto building techniques.  It’s very important to note that all Liquin varieties may be mixed with pigment on a 2:1 ratio, i.e.: 2 parts pigment to 1 part Liquin. 

In my personal arsenal of tools (painting methods) I have found that using Liquin Original and Liquin Impasto are helpful.  However, you may elect to use others to accomplish your work. For this reason, it is important to understand what each variety of Liquin will do to pigment.

So, how do you know which one(s) will work for you, etc., etc.?  Winsor and Newton (WN), the manufacturer of Liquin has an excellent website that offers helpful information about their products and videos that may be viewed or downloaded on how to use them.  Anyone interested in learning about Liquin should go to the WN website and spend a few minutes watching the video. The contact information is provided below for your convenience.

I believe that once you have tried Liquin you will be pleasantly pleased with the results and add the product to your tool box of materials and methods. I should make a note here that Liquin is not intended to be used as a varnish. It cannot be removed for cleaning or repair as a good varnish must and is best left as a paint additive.  There are excellent products available for the express purpose of varnishing and they should be used to keep a painting safe from environmental harm.

CONTACT: http://www.winsornewton.com/. Click on “Resource Center”, select “Our Latest Videos”, and select “Product Demonstrations”.