“A painter should begin every canvas with a wash of black because all things in nature are dark except where exposed by the light”
— Leonardo da Vinci
Simplified Meaning:
When an artist starts a painting, they should first cover the canvas with a layer of black. This is because most things in nature are dark until light shines on them and reveals their colors and details. Think about walking into a dark room; you can't see anything clearly until you turn on a light. This idea helps the painter understand the importance of light and shadow in creating a realistic picture. For example, when painting a landscape, the trees, mountains, and water will look dark without light. By starting with a dark background, artists can add layers of color to highlight where the light hits, making the scene more vivid and lifelike. This advice can also apply to other areas of life. When starting new projects, remember that clarity and understanding come through gradually bringing light to the dark areas. It highlights the importance of seeing things in their true light before adding the finishing touches.
