In this chapter, we embark on a journey to capture the enchanting beauty of the Bucklerburn River in Glenorchy, New Zealand, using the captivating technique of contre-jour lighting. This method, known for its dramatic 'against the light' effect, allows us to create a scene brimming with mood and mystery. By positioning the primary light source behind our subject, we achieve striking silhouettes and glowing highlights that bring our painting to life. You'll learn to master the art of balancing high contrast, ensuring that dark areas maintain subtle variations while the brightest spots glow without becoming harsh. We'll explore how backlighting enhances atmospheric depth, with distant elements becoming hazy and warm-toned, and how the foreground shadows can take on unexpected hues. Through a step-by-step process, I'll guide you in designing a successful composition, starting with a purplish-grey base coat and gradually introducing warm, luminous colors as we approach the sun. We'll add texture and detail to create depth, resulting in a vibrant, light-filled painting. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced painter, this lesson in oils (or acrylics) will enrich your skills and inspire your creativity. Let's dive in and enjoy the magic of painting together!
Step 14Mountain Form and Perspective
Build Up Light Gradually
Slowly build up the lights on the mountain to create a realistic and gradual transition. This enhances the depth and form of your painting.
Leave Gaps for Depth
Leave intentional gaps in your painting to suggest features like ravines or waterfalls. This creates a sense of depth and separation, making the landscape appear more dynamic and realistic.
Use Big Brush Strokes
Opt for big brush strokes to add detail, creating a calligraphic feel that is more artistic and joyful. Avoid laboring with a tiny brush for a more expressive result.
Reflect Vegetation with Color
Change the color from browner at the top, where there are tussocks, to greener at the bottom, where there are big trees. This reflects the natural variation in vegetation.
Lighten and Warm the Mountain Top
Add a little white and orange to the brown to make the top of the mountain appear lighter and warmer. Brown is essentially a dark orange, so this adjustment enhances the warmth.
Consider Sun Direction
Pay attention to the sun's direction as it affects light and warmth distribution. Planes tilting towards the sun should be the lightest and warmest.
Focus on Color Relativeness
Carefully consider color relativeness to create a realistic depiction of light and form. This makes the painting come alive, as if a world is emerging from the canvas.
Detail the Mountain Tops
Add more detail and interest to the tops of mountains, as they appear smaller and more compressed due to their distance. This enhances the painting's interest.
Enhance Base Perspective
The perspective of the mountain base makes it appear closer, enhancing the grandeur and majesty of the mountain. Keep the major interest in the top part for a balanced composition.
Summary & key takeaways
Embrace the journey of painting by experimenting with tools and techniques that bring out your unique style. Start with worn brushes to discover new textures and effects, and consider investing in quality materials to enhance your creative exploration. As you prepare your canvas, choose a fine weave to highlight your brushstrokes, and select vibrant oils to achieve rich tones.
Begin your composition by sketching the horizon and mountains, ensuring the peaks dominate the canvas without crowding it. Pay attention to light and shadow, using them to create depth and realism. Guide the viewer's eye through the scene with thoughtful placement of elements like rivers and trees, and exaggerate the warm light to add drama and interest.
As you build your painting, layer colors and textures to bring the scene to life. Use techniques like scumbling and color transitions to create dynamic effects, and don't shy away from adding your own artistic touches. Finish with careful attention to details, such as snow and sky, to capture the essence of the landscape. Remember, each stroke contributes to the overall harmony and beauty of your work.
Points to remember
- Experiment with old, worn brushes to discover new painting styles.
- Use a long flat number 2 brush for signing and adding small details.
- Position mountain peaks at least an inch from the top edge to avoid a cramped composition.
- Keep trees at the waterline small to preserve the mountain's perceived size.
- Exaggerate the colors to create a beautiful warm painting.
- Lightly brush the paint to cover the canvas without making it thick.
- Use a dry paint with less medium to achieve a textured look for snow and ice.
- Use the very edge of a big brush to create sharp shapes and add fine details.
