This is the area towards the bottom of the painting. However, it must not compete
with the centre of interest (focal point) in terms of detail, contrast, strength
of colour etc. Its sole pre-occupation is to lead the eye towards the focal
point from where the eye will be led to explore other areas of interest. It
must not have a physical barrier to the focal point. Furthermore, it should
overlap with the middle distance. Strong tones can come forward into the foreground,
whilst weak ones recede. Sometimes, a distant hill is dark, and to paint it
effectively one needs to introduce warm colours reds and yellows - into the
foreground, with perhaps some strong detail to counter the darkness in the distance.
But beware, do not overpaint this area otherwise the painting will not hang
together. Do not paint every blade of grass, or pebbles - a mere suggestion
will suffice. Simplify - Simplify - Simplify! Avoid being fussy.