In this chapter, we're diving into the fascinating world of color harmony, a concept often discussed but rarely mastered. Our journey begins with a practical tool: the gamut mask. By visiting my online page, you can access this tool to create unique color schemes for your paintings. The process is straightforward, with instructions readily available, and any uncertainties can be clarified by clicking on the helpful question marks. The beauty of the gamut mask lies in its simplicity; you define a shape, and your palette is limited to the colors within it, naturally fostering harmony. This technique, inspired by the renowned artist James Gurney, allows you to simplify and unify your color scheme, enhancing the coherence and mood of your artwork. We'll also focus on using a two-value statement to distinguish between light and shadow, simplifying complex scenes and establishing a clear visual structure. By the end of this chapter, you'll be equipped with a powerful method to achieve color harmony in all your future paintings, transforming your approach and elevating your art to new heights.
This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.
"Park Lane" 10x10" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson
Step 13Reflected Light and Color Adjustments
Mix Reflected Light Color
Mix a color for the reflected light in the shadow of the big cliff. Ensure it is lighter than the existing grey to capture the correct light effect. Adjust the mix if it appears too dark.
Add Reflected Light Details
Refer to a photo of the scene to identify details and major areas of reflected light. Apply reflected light to the big cliff and also to a smaller cliff, keeping in mind that the smaller cliff should be lighter as it is further away.
Adjust Cliff Contrast
Darken the top of the big cliff to make it stand out more. Lighten the area behind it to enhance the contrast and separation between elements.
Tone Down Vibrant Colors
If the color of a cliff appears too yellow and vibrant, tone it down by making it more orange, red, and slightly grey. This will prevent it from drawing too much attention.
Re-establish Darks
Re-establish some of the dark areas to maintain depth and balance in the composition. Grey down any colors that are overly bright and distracting.
Pro tipEnsure reflected light colors are lighter than the surrounding shadows to accurately depict light effects.
Embark on your painting journey by simplifying the landscape and achieving color harmony. Begin with a two-value statement to distinguish light and shadow families, and use a gamut mask to limit your color palette, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious color scheme. Choose a resource photo with large, simple shapes to focus on color relationships, and develop a visual concept that excites you, guiding your artistic decisions.
As you progress, create Notan sketches to define dark and light shapes, ensuring a dynamic and balanced composition. Conduct limited value studies to explore depth with three to five values, and experiment with gamut mask variations to discover unique color interactions. Prepare for your final painting by selecting your favorite color study and setting up your materials, including toning your canvas with a warm acrylic grey for enhanced color harmony.
During the painting process, apply colors methodically from dark to light, focusing on the center of interest and edge control to guide the viewer's eye. Add highlights and details with restraint to maintain balance, and use texture to enhance depth. Complete your painting with final touches, signing your work to mark it as your own. Remember, each step is an opportunity to explore and express your creativity.
Points to remember
Use a gamut mask to limit your color palette and achieve harmony.
Choose a photo with large, simple shapes to focus on color harmonies.
Link dark shapes to dark shapes and light shapes to light shapes for visual unity.
Keep your values separate on the palette to maintain simplicity in your study.
Mix more paint than you think you'll need to avoid running out mid-painting.
Darken the top of the chimney to make it stand out against a lighter background.
Ensure reflected light colors are lighter than the surrounding shadows to accurately depict light effects.
Remember that taste equals restraint when applying highlights.
