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.
Begin by painting the mountains first, even though it might seem counterintuitive. This approach helps you establish the main focus and allows you to work the sky around them. Leave gaps for light and add variations in the snow to create interest.
Add Cloud Highlights
Paint the highlights of the clouds using light edges. Avoid using pure white, as clouds are rarely as white as snow. Instead, aim for a slightly muted white to create a natural look.
Paint the Blue Sky
Use Windsor Blue to paint the sky around the mountains, varying the color and tone for a more dynamic effect. Decide where you want hard and soft edges in the clouds, and adjust accordingly.
Create Cloud Variations
Introduce variations in the clouds by adding different shapes and textures. Use a light touch with the brush to break up the clouds and create a more lively sky.
Soften Edges
If needed, soften the edges of the clouds by whisking a clean brush across the paint. This technique helps blend colors without muddying them, maintaining the vibrancy of your painting.
Pro tipStart with the mountains to establish focus and work the sky around them for better tonal balance.
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.
