In this chapter, we delve into the vibrant world of color mixing, a fundamental aspect of expressive brushwork. As we explore the palette, I'll guide you through the nuances of mixing colors, a topic many of you have inquired about. We'll start by discussing the importance of using a medium to adjust the consistency of your paints, ensuring they remain pliable and easy to work with. This is particularly crucial when working with thick whites, as a touch of medium can transform them into a more workable, slushy state. You'll learn about the specific colors I favor, such as the versatile Windsor Blue Red shade, which serves as a beautiful neutral for creating darks. We'll also explore the richness of Venetian Red and the vibrancy of Cadmium Lemon and Cadmium Yellow Pale, each offering unique qualities to your palette. As we mix these colors, you'll discover how to achieve the perfect greens and blues that often captivate viewers. This lesson is designed to enhance your understanding of color dynamics, empowering you to create paintings that are generous and luxurious in their expression. By the end of this chapter, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the purity and strength of your colors, setting the stage for your own expressive brushwork journey.
This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.
Sketch the building on your canvas using a blue or any color of your choice. Position the building slightly back in the composition to create a larger setting. Keep the structure high in the painting to emphasize its presence.
Establish Dark Values
Start by painting the darkest darks on the building to set a strong foundation. Use a mix of dark colors, adding a bit of warmth for the foreground. This will guide your eyes and help structure the rest of the painting.
Block in the Building Colors
Apply the main colors to the building, keeping the paint thin to allow for adjustments. Introduce variations by mixing in colors like Windsor Blue and white to add life to the roof and walls.
Add Details and Texture
Use a small brush to add details like skylights and roof variations. Create texture by suggesting rust and weathering on the roof. Avoid making everything too perfect; imperfections add character.
Paint the Background and Trees
Use gentle colors for the background, avoiding strong greens. Create a sense of distance with soft edges and subtle color variations. Add tree trunks with a light touch to integrate them into the landscape.
Develop the Foreground
Paint the foreground with expressive brushstrokes, suggesting movement and texture. Gradually increase the color strength as you move closer to the viewer. Consider adding elements like a dirt track or animals for interest.
Refine and Adjust
Make any necessary adjustments to balance the composition. Remove or alter elements that disrupt the flow, such as overly repetitive patterns. Use expressive strokes to suggest details without overworking them.
Pro tipWhen painting tree trunks or branches, lightly whisk across them to embed them into the paint, making them feel like part of the tree rather than separate elements.
In this lesson, you explored the art of creating expressive brushwork by focusing on composition, focal points, and dynamic elements. Begin your painting journey by identifying a focal point that naturally draws the viewer's eye. Use the rule of thirds as a guide, but allow your intuition to lead you as your painting develops. Avoid centered horizons and symmetrical patterns to maintain a dynamic and engaging composition.
As you build your painting, consider how elements like mountains, clouds, and shadows can guide the viewer's eye through the scene. Use contrast between light and dark areas to highlight your focal point and create a visual path. Incorporate diagonal lines and varied heights to add depth and interest, while avoiding repetitive patterns that can make your painting feel static.
Finally, focus on the details that bring your painting to life. Use expressive brushstrokes to suggest movement and texture, and soften edges to create a cohesive composition. Experiment with color application and mixing greys to achieve the desired tones. Remember, the goal is to create a painting that feels natural, spontaneous, and full of life.
Points to remember
Place your focal point at the intersection of the thirds for a balanced composition.
Avoid placing the horizon line in the center to prevent the painting from being divided into two equal halves.
Use varied heights for mountains and hills to naturally guide the viewer's eye through the painting.
A strong contrast between light and dark areas can effectively highlight your painting's focal point.
Use diagonal lines to make your painting more dynamic and engaging.
Avoid repetitive patterns by varying the size and shape of elements like rocks and clouds to maintain interest and rhythm.
Get as much colour on your painting as soon as you can to establish a strong foundation.
Use a brush to soften edges near the painting's edge for a more engaging composition.
