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 33Final touches and depth creation

Why is it important to use downstrokes when painting the boat?

Using downstrokes helps to create a weathered look on the boat, which adds to the realism of the painting. Not all strokes should be downstrokes, but incorporating some can enhance the texture and depth of your artwork. For more tips on creating realistic textures, visit the lesson page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

How can I make the front of the boat appear to jump forward in the painting?

To make the front of the boat jump forward, use thick layers of paint, especially with a slightly bluer and lighter tone. This creates a sense of depth and makes the closest part of the boat stand out. You can explore more techniques for creating depth at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

What effect does using a palette knife have on the painting?

Using a palette knife can help to smush the paint around and create a more organic look, adding texture and interest to the painting. It can also be used to add scratches and make parts of the boat look more beaten up. For more on using palette knives effectively, check out https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

Why should I avoid over-mixing paint on the palette?

Avoiding over-mixing paint on the palette allows for interesting paint effects and color variations in your artwork. Leaving some of the mixing to chance can result in unique and vibrant color notes that enhance the painting's depth and character. Learn more about color techniques at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

How can I create a glowing effect on the boat?

To create a glowing effect, use pure white paint on the end of your brush and lay it on the surface. The broken edge of the white line contributes to the worn and beat-up look of the boat, adding to the glow. For more techniques on achieving glowing effects, visit https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.

What is the purpose of adding warmth to certain areas of the painting?

Adding warmth to certain areas of the painting can create contrast and interest, making the artwork more dynamic. Warmer tones can help highlight specific parts of the painting, drawing the viewer's eye. Discover more about using warmth in your paintings 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.