Step-by-step painting guide

After the Storm

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

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.

This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.

See the full lesson
After the Storm 2
After the Storm 2

Step 32Boat painting and impasto technique

What brushes are used in this segment for painting the boat?

In this segment, Richard Robinson uses a number 10 long flat synthetic brush and a number 4 ivory long flat synthetic brush. These brushes help achieve the desired effects for the boat painting. For more details on the tools and techniques used, you can visit the lesson's sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

Why is it important to vary the darkness of the paint in different parts of the boat?

Varying the darkness of the paint helps create a sense of depth and realism. Richard emphasizes that the darkest dark should not be as dark as possible, to ensure there is a transition in value that brings the front of the boat forward with stronger contrast. This technique is crucial for achieving a realistic look. For more insights, check out the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

How does the angle of the boat affect the painting process?

The boat is resting at a slight angle, about 5 degrees, which affects how the horizontal and vertical lines are drawn. This tilt needs to be considered to maintain realism, as it impacts the perception of the boat's structure. Richard advises keeping this in mind while painting. More details can be found on the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

What is the technique for drawing straight lines in this painting?

To draw straight lines, Richard suggests locking your arm and rotating your body instead of using small wrist movements. This approach helps maintain a straight line and prevents wiggling. For further guidance, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

How is impasto technique used in this segment?

Impasto technique is used by applying thick layers of paint to create texture and highlights. Richard explains that the thickest, most impasto lights should be applied last to maintain their texture. This technique adds depth and interest to the painting. More on this technique is available at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

Why should you avoid starting with the strongest light when using impasto?

Starting with the strongest light can flatten the texture if you work outwards from it. Instead, Richard recommends building up to the highlight, applying the thickest impasto lights last to preserve their texture and impact. For more on this approach, visit https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

What is the purpose of adding a light spot on the top and matching it with one down the side?

Adding a light spot on the top and matching it with one down the side helps create the illusion of form, as if the light wraps over the edge. This technique enhances the three-dimensionality of the object. Richard discusses this in more detail in the lesson 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.