Seeing landscape

 I am always astounded by the variety of interpretations you see in landscape paintings.  Let 10 artists look at the same landscape and chances are you would get 10 different interpretations of it.  Some would be fairly literal and some more abstracted.  

 I am attracted to landscape paintings that are interpretative in some way.  It could be a stunning use of intense colours, elements of elongation, surrealism, whimsy, abstraction, pattern and texture..... The more interpretative the more I am attracted because I know the scene is being filtered through someone's thought processes and imagination.

 

 Paul Bailey 

I'm not usually attracted to landscape in watercolour, but I always give a second look when I see Paul Bailey's work.  With strong forms, intense colour, and minimal details, he catches the essence of a scene.

Anselm Kiefer

source  

What is a tree and how does it function in our lives and in the landscape? Here are two artists who  have interpreted trees by using objects. 

 

Susan Schiesser

Vibrant colour, patterning, and simplified forms all working together to created the patterns of landscape.  I can't resist the positive energy in Susan's work.

 

Karen Jacobs

Thin and thick colour, washed/scumbled over surface, assorted marks, open areas, line variety, drips and spatters all come together to create landscapes that provide a sense of the accumulation and the essence of time.

 

 Andrew Wyeth
One of my favourite landscape painters.  Enough said! 

 Lauren Adams

 

West Virginia artist Lauren Adams, uses thin veils of colour as a background and then  adds thick oil paint .  This unusual pairing creates a dialogue that questions the essence of the land.

 "Limerick" - Shawn McNulty

McNulty's abstract palette knife paintings reveal the process of their creation much as the land does.  While there is a quietness in the landscape created, the energy of its creation is evident.

 

Carol Nelson, Ancient Dwellings

Nelson's landscapes are obviously inspired by rocks, cliffs and other geologic features.  The texture, colours and effective use of line, as well as a high horizon line draws the viewer's eye. 

Do you have favourite elements in landscape painting  or a favourite landscape painter? I would love to link this post to a new one based on your suggestions.