Step-by-step painting guide

California Cliffs

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

From the online lesson California Cliffs · Download the printable PDF

Paint Californian coastal cliffs at sunset! Continuing with the previous workshop’s theme of coastal cliffs at sunset, this time we learn to invent our own beautiful sunset lighting effect from a midday reference. Tricky, but can you do it!? Follow me step by step as I show you the techniques I use to paint this inspiring sunset beach scene. Painting a large glowing light effect, translucent water, atmospherics and simplifying complex structures 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
"California Cliffs" 13 x 13" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
"California Cliffs" 13 x 13" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 8Understanding and exaggerating color differences

Why are some faces of the rock warmer in color?

The faces of the rock that are turned slightly down towards the beach are warmer because they reflect the warm light glowing off the beach. This understanding helps in placing the warms and cools correctly in your painting. To explore this concept further, visit the lesson page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/72-California-Cliffs.

Why do some faces of the rock appear cooler in color?

The faces of the rock that are turned more up towards the sky appear cooler because they reflect the cooler light from the sky. Recognizing these differences is crucial for accurately depicting the rock's form. For more insights, check out the full lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/72-California-Cliffs.

How can I make the color differences between warm and cool areas more visible?

You can increase the saturation of the colors to make the differences between warm and cool areas more visible. This technique helps in understanding the form of the rock and makes the painting more interesting. For a detailed explanation, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/72-California-Cliffs.

What are the striations of color on the cliff, and how do they affect the painting?

The striations of color on the cliff are subtle bands of color that go across the rock. These add complexity and interest to the painting, and recognizing them can enhance the realism of your work. Learn more about incorporating these details at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/72-California-Cliffs.

Why does the rock get darker at the bottom and bluer to the left?

The rock gets darker at the bottom due to the natural shading and possibly less light reaching those areas. It appears bluer to the left where it curves around to face the ocean, reflecting the ocean's cooler tones. For more on how to capture these effects, see the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/72-California-Cliffs.

How does the sun glow affect the painting of the cliff?

The sun glow coming from the top right-hand corner adds complexity to the painting by introducing additional warm tones and highlights. This effect can be used to enhance the drama and depth of your painting. Discover more about handling light effects in the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/72-California-Cliffs.

Why should I exaggerate color differences in my painting?

Exaggerating color differences between warms and cools makes the form of the rock easier to see and the painting more visually interesting. It's a matter of personal taste, and you can choose how much to exaggerate based on the effect you want to achieve. For more guidance, visit https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/72-California-Cliffs.

Summary & key takeaways

In this California Cliffs painting journey, I aimed to guide you through capturing the majestic beauty of cliffs bathed in warm sunlight. From preparing the canvas to applying the final details, each step was designed to help you understand the nuances of color, light, and composition. I hope you found the use of Cobra water mixable oils and the techniques for mixing greys and vibrant sun glows both enlightening and enjoyable.

As you painted the cliff face and explored the interplay of warm and cool tones, I encouraged you to observe and exaggerate color differences to bring your painting to life. The subtle shifts in color and the glowing effects were key to achieving depth and drama in your work. I trust that these techniques have enriched your painting skills and inspired you to see the world with an artist's eye.

Remember, painting is as much about the journey as it is about the final piece. I hope this lesson has not only improved your technical skills but also deepened your appreciation for the art of painting. Keep experimenting, observing, and most importantly, enjoying the process.

Points to remember
  • Use a brush for sketching to maintain fluidity in your composition.
  • Vary shapes and angles to create a dynamic composition.
  • Mix your own oranges for a cleaner, vibrant sun glow.
  • Apply walnut oil lightly to achieve a glowing effect.
  • Keep separate brushes for light and dark colors to avoid muddying.
  • Paint the cliff face first to set the foundation for the painting.
  • Exaggerate warm and cool color differences for visual interest.
  • Use color modifiers to transition smoothly in glowing areas.