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 29Dark accents and occlusion shadow
What is an occlusion shadow and where can it be found in a painting?
An occlusion shadow is an area where very little light reaches, resulting in a very dark shadow. In this lesson, Richard Robinson demonstrates creating an occlusion shadow underneath the boat, where the light is least likely to penetrate. For more detailed insights on painting techniques like this, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
Why should you paint dark areas darker than they need to be when using acrylics?
When using acrylics, it's important to paint dark areas a bit darker than you think they should be because acrylics tend to dry lighter than they appear when wet. This technique helps ensure that the final dried color is as dark as intended. For further tips on handling acrylics, check out the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
What is the significance of soft edges in painting, as mentioned in the lesson?
Soft edges in painting help to create a sense of depth and realism, as they can mimic the natural way light diffuses around objects. In this segment, Richard Robinson points out the soft edge in the sand, which adds to the overall texture and interest of the painting. To learn more about creating effective soft edges, visit 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.
