Step-by-step painting guide

Safe Harbour

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

Learn to paint this beautiful harbour scene, step by step. Welcome to the beautiful medieval village of Yvoire in France. Apparently it closes completely in the winter (Yvoire, not France) but while we were there it was warm, beautiful and begging to be painted. Follow me step by step as I show you the techniques I use to paint this ideal harbour scene quickly and easily in acrylics. Designing with big shapes, inventing warm light, creating atmospheric depth and painting reflections are all demonstrated in the video. Enjoy!

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
"Safe Harbour" 11 x 13" Acrylic on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
"Safe Harbour" 11 x 13" Acrylic on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 17Foreground Dinghy and Details

Why is the side of the boat in the foreground painted red?

The sides of the boat in the foreground are painted red to add color, but it's a very dark and subdued red to ensure it doesn't stand out too much. This approach helps keep the foreground in shadow, allowing the center of interest and the light to stand out more prominently. For more insights on this technique, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

How do you create soft edges under the edge of the boat?

To create soft edges under the edge of the boat, the artist makes the area a little darker and ensures the edge is very soft, not sharp at all. This technique helps blend the boat into the shadowy foreground. Explore more about this method on the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

What technique is used for painting the red fenders?

The red fenders are initially painted with a fairly vibrant red, which is then darkened at the edges to help them curve around. A mid-gray or neutral gray is used for the top of the fender to add dimension. Learn more about this technique by visiting the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

How is the grey color used in different parts of the boat?

The grey color is used in various parts of the boat to create shadows and reflections. A mid-gray is used for the top of the fender, the back of the boat, and for some curvature at the front where light bounces off the water. A slightly lighter, slightly bluer grey is used for surfaces reflecting more of the sky. Discover more about this color application at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

What is the purpose of adding light on the back of the boat?

Adding light on the back of the boat is intended to create a focal point by using white, a little bit of yellow, and some toning grey. This technique is applied to the still wet paint to enhance the effect of light shining on the boat. For further details on this technique, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

Why are large brush strokes used in the foreground?

Large brush strokes are used in the foreground to maintain a sense of scale and to keep the details from becoming too sharp, which helps the foreground remain in shadow and not detract from the center of interest. For more on this technique, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

How are shadows and reflections incorporated into the painting of the dinghy?

Shadows and reflections are incorporated by intensifying the reflection of the sky and adding shadows cast by elements like the Rolex and the edge of the boat. These details add depth and realism to the painting. Learn more about these techniques at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

What changes are made to the tops of the fenders?

The tops of the fenders are changed from grey to black to create a stronger contrast and enhance the overall composition of the dinghy. For more insights on this adjustment, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

Summary & key takeaways

As I reflect on our journey through painting 'Safe Harbour,' I am reminded of the importance of laying a strong foundation with initial sketches and studies. These early steps are crucial for understanding composition, values, and color schemes, setting the stage for a successful painting. By taking the time to explore different ideas and refine them into a detailed cartoon, we ensure that our final piece is well thought out and cohesive.

Throughout the painting process, I emphasized the creative freedom that distinguishes painting from photography. By making thoughtful design changes, such as adding a sailboat for focus or adjusting the castle's shape for balance, we can enhance the visual interest and emotional impact of our work. These decisions, along with subtle color adjustments, help to create a dynamic and engaging scene.

I hope that as you continue your painting journey, you embrace the flexibility of your chosen medium, whether acrylics or oils, and experiment with techniques like creating background gradients and transferring drawings. Remember, each brushstroke is an opportunity to express your unique vision and bring your painting to life.

Points to remember
  • Start with thumbnail sketches to explore composition ideas.
  • Use black and white, grayscale, and color studies to understand values and color schemes.
  • Embrace the differences between painting and photography for creative expression.
  • Make design changes to create a clear center of interest.
  • Adjust colors to add warmth and vibrancy to your painting.
  • Use acrylics for background gradients, even when painting in oils.
  • Transfer drawings accurately using graphite or the grid method.
  • Experiment with filbert brushes for versatile strokes and effects.