Step-by-step painting guide

The Grand Canyon

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

From the online lesson The Grand Canyon · Download the printable PDF

Learn to simplify a complex landscape, easily. One of the biggest problems we encounter with landscape painting is the sheer amount of detail and complexity we are faced with. How do we deal with all of that!? This workshop teaches you about simplifying a scene with the light and shadow families and then using a two value statement to simplify even further. What better place to do this than the Grand Canyon – one of the most complex scenes on Earth!

This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.

See the full lesson
"Sunrise, Grand Canyon" 10x8" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson
"Sunrise, Grand Canyon" 10x8" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson

Step 2Black and White Shadow Exercise

What is the purpose of using a black and white printout for the shadow exercise?

The black and white printout helps to mentally separate the light and shadow families, allowing you to simplify the scene. By painting over the shadow areas with black acrylic paint, you can start to understand the subject better and simplify its shapes. This exercise is a great way to get in touch with your subject and prepare for adding color later. For more insights, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/107-The-Grand-Canyon.

How does simplifying shapes help in painting the Grand Canyon?

Simplifying shapes helps retain the character of the general shape while ignoring fine details, making it easier to manage the complexity of the scene. This approach allows you to focus on the essential elements and design of your painting, which is crucial when dealing with a detailed subject like the Grand Canyon. You can explore this technique further on the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/107-The-Grand-Canyon.

What should you do when you encounter a dark shape that is in the light?

When you encounter a dark shape that is in the light, like the tree in the corner of the scene, you should paint around it with the shadow family in the rock. This approach helps maintain the integrity of the light and shadow families. Using artistic license to introduce your own shadows can also make the composition more interesting. Learn more about handling such scenarios at the sales page: https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/107-The-Grand-Canyon.

Why is it beneficial to join shadow shapes together in a painting?

Joining shadow shapes together is beneficial because it unifies the dark shapes, helps guide the viewer's eye around the painting, and simplifies the overall composition. This technique allows for a more cohesive and engaging visual experience. For further exploration of this technique, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/107-The-Grand-Canyon.

What is the main goal of the black and white shadow exercise?

The main goal of the black and white shadow exercise is to come to grips with your subject by dividing it into light and shadow families and simplifying the design for your painting. This foundational step is crucial for creating a balanced and harmonious composition. Dive deeper into this exercise on the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/107-The-Grand-Canyon.

Summary & key takeaways

As I reflect on our journey through painting the Grand Canyon, I am reminded of the importance of simplifying complex scenes into manageable elements. By focusing on light and shadow families, we can create a strong design and maintain vibrant colors. This approach not only helps in defining the form but also keeps the painting process organized and efficient.

Throughout this lesson, I aimed to guide you in understanding the significance of value over color, especially in a landscape as intricate as the Grand Canyon. By setting the darkest darks and lightest lights, we establish a framework that ensures balance and depth in our painting. This methodical approach allows us to capture the essence of the scene while maintaining clarity and harmony.

I hope that this lesson has equipped you with the tools and confidence to tackle even the most daunting landscapes. Remember, painting is as much about the journey as it is about the final piece. Embrace the process, and let your creativity guide you.

Points to remember
  • Simplify colors into light and shadow families to maintain vibrant colors.
  • Use a black and white shadow exercise to better understand your subject.
  • Mix a single color for each light and shadow family to simplify your painting.
  • Set the darkest dark and lightest light to establish value limits.
  • Focus on value over color to create contrast and depth.
  • Use systematic approaches to organize your painting process.
  • Soften edges to create the illusion of rounded forms.
  • Add color variations to enhance interest and natural appearance.