When painting white flowers, the power lies in the stark contrasts between the pure white areas of the flower and the almost dark cast shadows. The reflective gold in the center creates a glowing appearance and brings the flower to life. White on any object reflects the colors around it. The Impressionists recognized this when they moved from dimly lit studios to the bright sunlight of outdoors. What beauty and vibrancy they found in the shimmering sparkles of light on water or the dappling colors reflected on a frilly white dress. One of my favorite paintings in the
Chrysler Museum, the
Daughters of Durand-Ruel, is an example. It was painted by Renoir entirely out of doors with lively brushstrokes and a palette of dynamic and ever changing colors.
