In this chapter, I invite you to explore the fascinating world of color as light. Imagine each colored object in your painting as its own light source—a red object as a red light, a yellow one as a yellow light, and so forth. This approach transforms the way you perceive and depict light interacting with objects. By visualizing each object as if it were radiating its own glow, you can create a vibrant area around it where its color infuses the surrounding space. This technique will enrich your understanding of how light influences nearby areas, allowing you to capture the essence of any subject with simple light and shadow shapes. As we delve deeper into mastering color, you'll find this perspective not only enhances your paintings but also brings a new level of depth and vibrancy to your work. Let's embark on this colorful journey together and unlock the secrets to making your paintings truly glow.
This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.
Choose a simple object like an apple for your still life, with a plain background. Use two big brushes and a palette knife, or any painting tools you prefer.
Establish the Apple
Decide where your apple will be on the canvas. Brush green paint into the background, using thinners like Gamsol if desired, to begin forming the apple's shape.
Add Darks and Lights
Introduce dark tones around the apple's location to define its form. Add lighter tones without focusing too much on detail to start creating the glowing effect.
Create the Background
Mix a grey background color. The darker the background, the stronger the glow effect will be. Work the edges of the apple into the background using various brush techniques.
Enhance the Glow
Use your first brush to lightly dust across the surface, adjusting pressure for distinct or soft edges. Stand back to assess the painterly effect from a distance.
Add Edge Variety
Vary the edges around the apple for a more interesting look. Use your palette knife and different brush techniques to create a range of sharp and soft edges.
Finalize with Highlights
Once satisfied with the glow and edges, add highlights and details as desired. Stop when further adjustments might detract from the effect.
Pro tipVary the edges around your object to create a more dynamic and painterly effect.
In this lesson, you explored the concept of treating objects as light sources, allowing you to capture the interplay of light and color in your paintings. By visualizing each object as a glowing entity, you can infuse your work with vibrant energy and depth. This approach is particularly effective in still life and figure studies, where the glowing effect can transform the atmosphere of your composition.
You learned to enhance the glowing effect by lightening and saturating mid values, using thicker paint in light areas, and varying edges for a dynamic look. These techniques help create a striking contrast between light and dark, making your subjects pop against their backgrounds. Whether painting still life or landscapes, these methods allow you to achieve a painterly glow that captivates the viewer.
As you continue your painting journey, remember to experiment with different tools and techniques, such as using a palette knife for unique textures. By focusing on the glowing effect and its impact on the surrounding environment, you can elevate your artwork and bring a new level of vibrancy and interest to your compositions.
Points to remember
Treat each colored object as a light source to capture its interaction with light.
Lighten and saturate mid values to enhance the glowing effect.
Surround sky holes with a blue haze and soft edges for a sacred glow.
Vary the edges around your object for a dynamic, painterly effect.
Use a palette knife to create textures and shapes not achievable with a brush.
Increase color saturation in half tones and shadows for a glowing effect.
Use fewer and lighter brush strokes when blending complementary colors.
Aim to make your object glow with vibrant color to enhance its presence.
