Paint light, atmosphere and depth, with only 3 colours! Follow me one brushstroke at a time as I take you through the process of creating a large acrylic painting which has all the hallmarks of an oil painting. Learn to create large gradations, soft edged brushwork and sparkling impasto highlights. Good design, accurate drawing, passionate brushwork and a variety of fun techniques are all demonstrated in the video. Enjoy! Oils are fine for this lesson too.
Step 1Canvas size and medium choice
What size is the canvas used in the 'After the Storm' painting lesson?
The canvas used in the 'After the Storm' painting lesson is quite large, measuring 36 by 48 inches. This size allows for detailed brushwork, which will be demonstrated throughout the lesson. For more details on this lesson, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
What medium is being used for the 'After the Storm' painting, and why?
In the 'After the Storm' painting, we are using acrylics. Although the original painting was done in oils, acrylics are being used because they are less prone to cracking over time, especially in large paintings. This choice was made to meet a client's request for a durable piece to hang above a fireplace. For further insights, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
Can oils be used instead of acrylics for the 'After the Storm' painting?
Yes, oils can be used instead of acrylics for the 'After the Storm' painting. The original version of the painting was done in oils. However, acrylics are being used in this lesson to prevent issues like cracking, which can occur with oils over time. To explore more about this lesson, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
Why was acrylic chosen over oil for the commissioned painting in the lesson?
Acrylic was chosen over oil for the commissioned painting because it is less likely to crack over time, especially when displayed in conditions like above a fireplace. The instructor has personal experience with acrylic paintings remaining in good condition for years. For more information on the lesson and medium choice, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
Summary & key takeaways
In this chapter, we embarked on a journey to capture the serene yet powerful aftermath of a storm, using a large canvas and the versatile medium of acrylics. I chose acrylics for their durability, especially for a piece meant to withstand the test of time above a fireplace. This painting, 'After the Storm,' is a testament to the beauty found in simplicity and the emotional depth that can be conveyed through a limited color palette.
Our exploration of the painting's evolution highlighted the importance of adjusting values and experimenting with formats to enhance the visual impact. By focusing on atmospheric perspective and compositional techniques, we created a sense of depth and guided the viewer's eye to the focal point. This process not only refined our technical skills but also deepened our understanding of how to convey mood and emotion through art.
As we conclude this lesson, I hope you take away the joy of painting subjects with character and history, like the old boats that tell stories of their own. Remember, each brushstroke is an opportunity to explore new techniques and express your unique artistic voice. Keep challenging yourself with specific goals in each painting session, and let your passion for art guide you to new creative heights.
Points to remember
- Choose acrylics for large paintings to avoid cracking over time.
- Use a limited color palette to enhance the mood of a scene.
- Adjust values to create depth and focus in your painting.
- Experiment with different formats to find the best composition.
- Paint from life to capture light and detail accurately.
- Establish the horizon early to guide the rest of the composition.
- Work wet into wet with acrylics for soft edges and smooth blends.
- Spray water on your palette to keep acrylics workable longer.
