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

Listen to this episode from Learn to Paint Podcast on Spotify. 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 / BOOKSLinks Mentioned in the Show:Video Lesson: Exploring Composition through Shape and NotanThe 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 PaintingThe Power of Color Grouping in Landscape PaintingGetting the Light Right: The Power of the Color StudyExercise: Simplification and Massing in Landscape with Limited ValuesIt's time to build your art habit. This 8-week bootcamp is going to help you do it. Get first access to a limited number of seats. Add your name to the waitlist here:https://www.learntopaintpodcast.com/bootcampwaitlistComing Summer 2025.Support the show