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 6Painting process and edge management
What tools does Richard use for this painting process?
Richard uses a simple setup for this painting process, primarily relying on one brush to do most of the work. He also uses a square palette knife and an HB pencil for marking out areas on the canvas. You can explore more about his tool choices and techniques at the sales page: https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
Why is the horizon marked out first in the painting?
The horizon is marked out first because it helps with the placement of everything else in the painting. Establishing the horizon early on provides a reference point for the rest of the composition. For more insights into the painting process, visit the sales page: https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
What is the sequence Richard follows for painting the landscape and the boat?
Richard paints the entire landscape first before adding the boat on top. This sequence is important because it allows him to create soft edges and blends by working wet into wet, which is crucial when using acrylics. For a deeper understanding of this technique, check out the sales page: https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/215-After-the-Storm.
Why is it important to work wet into wet when painting with acrylics?
Working wet into wet is important with acrylics because it allows for the creation of soft edges and smooth blends. If the paint dries too quickly, it becomes difficult to achieve these effects, which is why Richard plans his painting process to maintain wet areas. Learn more about edge management in acrylic painting at the sales page: 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.
