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.
"Safe Harbour" 11 x 13" Acrylic on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
Step 2Differences Between Painting and Photograph
Why does the instructor believe that the differences between a painting and a photograph make the painting more interesting?
The instructor believes that the differences between a painting and a photograph contribute to making the painting a more interesting image. These differences allow for artistic interpretation and creativity, which can enhance the visual appeal and emotional impact of the painting. To explore this concept further, you can visit the lesson sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.
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.
