Step-by-step painting guide
A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson
From the online lesson Golden Valley · Download the printable PDF
In this chapter, we'll embark on an artistic journey through the breathtaking Golden Valley of New Zealand. Together, we'll explore the nuances of acrylic painting, capturing the essence of an oil painting with every brushstroke. I will guide you meticulously through the process, ensuring you witness every detail, from color mixing to the final touches that bring the scene to life. One of the key elements we'll delve into is the concept of lighting—an often overlooked aspect that can transform your work dramatically. By understanding how to light the entire scene, you'll learn to direct the viewer's eye and evoke the mood you desire. This powerful technique can significantly elevate your painting skills. We'll also cover essential aspects like brushwork, design, texture, and those crisp finishing details that make your painting pop. As we paint this stunning scene, you'll discover the striking contrast between the blues of the mountains and the warm yellowy oranges of the foreground, a central theme that adds vibrancy and depth. So, grab your brushes and join me in bringing this beautiful landscape to life, one stroke at a time.
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
Add a few strokes to define the edges of the trees. Ensure that the edges are tidy to create a clear separation from the background.
Leave areas of shadow within the trees to indicate the direction of the light. Avoid painting the trees as uniform blobs of green to maintain a sense of depth and light source.
Embark on your painting journey by embracing the vibrant contrast between the blues of the mountains and the warm yellows of the foreground. This striking contrast will guide your theme and set the tone for your Golden Valley masterpiece. Begin by preparing your materials and selecting a limited palette and brush set to maintain consistency and ease throughout the process.
As you progress, focus on building your composition from the background forward, layering colors to create depth and perspective. Use techniques such as scrubbing and blending to achieve smooth transitions, and be mindful of maintaining clean brushes to ensure vibrant colors. Pay attention to the placement of major lines and masses to create dynamic space divisions and avoid symmetry.
In the final stages, enhance your painting with atmospheric effects and fine details. Use subtle mist and snow highlights to add interest and realism, and ensure your shadows and highlights maintain the depth and contrast necessary for a captivating scene. Remember, each brushstroke contributes to the overall harmony and balance of your painting, so take your time to refine and perfect your artwork.