Why Noir? Studying Film Noir Makes Me a Better Painter.

A series on how film noir inspires my art- Entry #3

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Many film noir aficionados know that American film noir was born from German Expressionism,

an art movement that started at the turn of the 20th century, and encompassed painting, theater, music, literature, and the brand-new medium of film.
It sought to express emotion and subjective experience by using symbolism, exaggeration, and distortion. In painting, the elements of design were used to support a narrative.

"M" 1931 Fritz Lang

"The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari" 1920

In cinematography, the techniques used included deep focus, extreme camera angles, dramatic lighting shone from raked angles, and chiaroscuro (which is a painterly technique developed during the Renaissance where use of deep variations of light and dark is used to enhance mood and create dramatic effect).

I consider the masters of film noir my teachers as well as my inspiration. By studying their cinematographic virtuosity, I have become a better narrative painter.

Because the noir aesthetic is so specific, I am obliged to narrow my focus and deepen my decisions, which has honed my skills.

"Crossfire" 1947

©lesliepetersonsapp Lamplight 40x48

I have become better at marshaling the elements of design, such as value, arrangement, and scale. I believe these skills transcend any specific style and will translate to other subjects as my creative interests evolve.

©lesliepetersonsapp Exit 28x18

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Why Noir? is a series! Read 'em all.