Activity #10-Mediums and Techniques

Edward Steichen
Scarlet Poppy
1920
oil on canvas

There are many mediums applied to this painting. The artist used oil on canvas for this painting but there are other mediums used to describe this work such as the thin paint with hidden brush strokes. The image of the Scarlet Poppy is the most important visual in the painting showing the viewer's eye why the painting was named after the flower. Of course the viewer can tell the art was painted from looking at the piece. Using primary colors that also compliment each other being opposite of the color wheel. Emphasis means that our attention is drawn more to certain parts of a composition than to others. Edward Steichen uses emphasis for the flower using a brighter red to create light and dark values. Thin paint is used however, if you address the picture with your eyes and not your hands then you will see rough patches from small brush strokes. The surface of the painting has its own actual texture.




Edward Steichen
The Sunflower
1920
tempera and oil on canvas

Different mediums are used to contribute to this painting. Tempera and oil on canvas are mediums used. Thin hidden brush strokes are applied. The surface and the visual texture are both smoothed. The variety of shapes and colors are creating interest to the viewers eye and the compostion of the painting is unified. There is not one important image in the painting. Steichen uses primary and secondary colors. This work is painted. The qualities enhance the overall visual impact of the work using variety. Mediums are important for a work of art.