Learn to paint this beautiful impressionistic scene, step by step. Stuck indoors with time on your hands? Take a walk with me to a beautiful lake in New Zealand. Along the way you'll discover the joy of painting in a colourful impressionistic style using large brushes and loads of paint. Follow me step by step as I show you the techniques I use to paint this light filled scene. Designing an inviting scene, painting with freedom, and a variety of fun techniques are all demonstrated in the video. Enjoy!
Step 16Adding Shadows and Light Flow
How can I add variety to the shadows in my painting?
To add variety to the shadows in your painting, you can use warmer greys that are slightly lighter. This helps to create a more natural look and prevents the shadows from appearing too man-made.
What should I consider when thinking about the flow of light in my painting?
When considering the flow of light in your painting, think about what little details or clumps of foliage the light will pick up in the shadowed areas. This helps to create a dynamic and realistic scene. You can explore more about managing light flow in your artwork at
Why is it important to remember the shadows cast by clumps of grass?
It's important to remember the shadows cast by clumps of grass because they add depth and realism to your painting. These shadows contribute to the overall composition and help to integrate the elements of the scene naturally. For more tips on incorporating shadows effectively, check out the full lesson at
Summary & key takeaways
As I reflect on our journey through 'A Walk to the Lake,' I am reminded of the beauty that lies in simplicity and the power of thoughtful composition. We began with a scene that naturally lent itself to a compelling composition, with a stream leading the eye into the painting. My goal was to enhance this natural beauty by playing with light, color, and contrast to create a dynamic and engaging piece.
Throughout the process, I emphasized the importance of edge treatment and the balance between warm and cool colors. By softening certain edges and enhancing others, we created a painting that draws the viewer's eye to the most important elements. The use of large brushes and time constraints pushed us to embrace expressive brushwork, capturing the fleeting light of the day.
I hope you take away the joy of experimenting with color saturation and the courage to make design adjustments that enhance visual interest. Remember, painting is as much about personal expression as it is about technique. Trust your instincts, and let your creativity guide you.
Points to remember
- Use soft and sharp edges to guide the viewer's focus.
- Contrast warm and cool colors for depth and interest.
- Large brushes help cover the canvas quickly under time constraints.
- Increase color saturation to reflect what the eye perceives.
- Adjust the scene's elements to enhance visual interest.
- Soften edges to control where the viewer's eye is drawn.
- Tone the canvas to add vibrancy and shimmer.
- Mix colors on the canvas for unexpected results and texture.
