There is a lot to think about at once when painting. Take for example choosing a background colour. As well as considering contrast in temperature and in value, it is really important to echo some of the colours that have been used in the subject, in the background. Take a look at some of your favourite famous paintings and check this out. Even portrait artists often throw some of those flesh colours into the background. Without that, colours can feel disjointed or lonely. Conclusion – when doing backgrounds, think about: value, temperature, and echoing colours that you have already used.