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 4Mountain Composition and Perspective
Set the Horizon
Position the horizon line quite low on your canvas. This allows the large mountains to dominate the painting, emphasizing their size and enhancing the perspective.
Place Mountain Peaks
Position the mountain peaks close to the top edge of the canvas, but keep them at least an inch from the top. This prevents a cramped composition while ensuring the peaks remain a significant focal point.
Choose Mountain Shapes
Select the shapes of the mountain tops that interest you the most, starting with the highest peak. Use natural shapes as inspiration, but feel free to modify them to suit your artistic vision.
Maintain Variety in Angles
Avoid using angles that are too similar to maintain variety and prevent the painting from appearing man-made. This helps preserve the natural feel of the landscape.
Direct the Viewer’s Eye
Ensure the mountain edges rise towards the edges of the painting. This technique helps contain the viewer's eye within the painting, avoiding edges that lead the eye out of the composition.
Explore Shadow Shapes
Identify where the shadows begin and how they interact with the mountain's contours. Understanding this interaction is key to creating a realistic and dramatic depiction of light and shadow.
Understand Mountain Form
Study the form of the mountains before painting to understand how shapes and shadows work together. This understanding is crucial for accurately capturing the mountain's structure and the play of light and shadow.
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.
