WAYS TO SHOW MOVEMENT
● Implied movement Choosing a subject in motion, such as a child jumping over a puddle, automatically creates a more dynamic and interesting painting than a static subject. For example, a horse running creates a more engaging visual story than a horse standing in a field.
● Showing a few frames This technique is derived from traditional animation, where each frame of the animated film was hand-drawn on separate sheets of paper that were rapidly flipped to generate the illusion of motion. As painters, we don’t have the luxury of flipping through paintings, but we can show several instances of the same subject at different points in time. This is the technique used by Giacomo Balla in his dog painting.
● Exaggerated form in motion Look for opportunities to exaggerate the angle or length of a limb slightly to enhance the feeling of graceful, fluid movement (think ballet dancers), but keep it subtle.
● Directional brushstrokes In a similar way to cartoonists drawing lines streaking behind a ball that’s flying through the air to indicate motion, we can show movement, albeit more subtly, by deliberately placing brushstrokes in the direction of movement.
● Soft or broken edges Sharp, defined edges around a subject create an impression of it being static and frozen in time. On the other hand, soft, blurred edges and edges with scumbled, broken colour invite a feeling of natural liveliness.
● Motion blur of the subject In terms of paint application, this is similar to soft and broken edges as it uses either blending or scumbling paint. However, the blur acts to show the direction of motion and makes a part or the whole subject appear a little see-through or ghostly, almost like a visual trail. Imagine a photograph where someone suddenly moved, creating a blur.
● Motion blur of the background Alternatively, we can choose to show the subject in perfect focus, but create a blurry background. This creates the illusion of moving together with a fast-travelling subject, with everything behind the subject zipping past. Imagine watching a motorcyclist driving next to you on a motorway with trees and highway signs blurring behind them.