The Art of Simplicity: Painting with Just Five Colors

In both life and art, I’m always searching for simplicity. I’ve found that when I strip things down to their essentials, I create more space—for clarity, for joy, and for deeper connection.

My painting process reflects that same philosophy. I work with just five colors:

• Alizarin Crimson (red hue)

• Viridian (green hue)

• French Ultramarine (blue)

• Cadmium Yellow Pale (yellow hue)

• Titanium White

Occasionally, I’ll add a sixth color—but only rarely. From this small palette, I’ve discovered an infinite range of possibilities. Soft pastels, rich shadows, and bold, vibrant tones emerge in ways that never cease to surprise me. It’s a reminder that limits, when embraced, can actually expand creativity rather than restrict it.

The Art of Blending as a Mindful Ritual

What I love most is not just the painting itself, but the preparation—the blending. Before my brush ever touches the canvas, I take 45 minutes to an hour simply mixing colors. I don’t rush. I don’t even focus on the final image at this point. Instead, I immerse myself in the moment, letting the act of blending become a form of meditation.

It’s a quiet, grounding ritual. I tune out the noise of the world and listen to what wants to emerge from within. I explore subtle shifts in tone, layering pigments, feeling my way toward harmony. This process has become as important as the finished piece—it’s the doorway into the story I’m about to tell on the canvas.

Simplicity as a Creative Superpower

Over time, this way of working has taught me something valuable: beauty doesn’t require complexity. Sometimes, the richest results come from the simplest beginnings. Creativity flourishes when we allow ourselves to slow down, be present, and truly feel what we’re creating.

I invite you to watch this video (on my social media accounts), of
my process and see how five colors can unfold into an endless world of expression.