Sunset Beach

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

In this chapter, we'll explore the stunning sunset beach scene at Proctor's Beach, a cherished spot of mine just over the hill from Oceans Beach, near my home. It's not only a favorite painting location but also a delightful place to slide down the sand dunes. The scene we're capturing is from an older photo, which I've painted numerous times, each attempt offering new insights and techniques. In this lesson, I'll guide you step by step through the process of painting this inspiring sunset. We'll focus on creating a large glowing light effect, mastering atmospheric perspective, and employing beautiful brushwork. To start, I moisten the canvas with a little water, allowing the paint to spread smoothly. Using a large brush, I apply acrylics to transition from warm lights to cool darks, capturing the essence of the sunset. This scene is a rewarding subject, offering endless opportunities to experiment and learn, and I hope you'll find as much joy in painting it as I do.

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

"Sunset Beach" 15.5 x 20" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 6Using a black and white reference

I use a black and white printout of the photograph as a reference. This helps me focus on the values and shapes without being influenced by the colors in the photo.

Pro tipUsing a black and white reference allows me to concentrate on value and composition without the distraction of color.

← Step 5: Painting light colors first Step 7: Painting grass and bushes →

Summary & key takeaways

As I reflect on our journey through painting 'Sunset Beach,' I am reminded of the magic that comes from capturing the fleeting beauty of a sunset. From the initial toning of the canvas to the final brushstrokes, each step was designed to bring out the warmth and glow of the scene. My goal was to guide you in creating a painting that not only captures the light but also conveys the depth and atmosphere of a tranquil beach at sunset.

Throughout the process, I emphasized the importance of value and color relationships, encouraging you to see beyond the photograph and interpret the scene with your own artistic vision. By focusing on the interplay of light and shadow, and the subtle transitions of color, we were able to create a painting that feels alive and vibrant.

I hope this lesson has inspired you to experiment with your techniques and to trust your instincts as you paint. Remember, each brushstroke is an opportunity to express your unique perspective and to bring a little piece of the sunset into your art.

Points to remember

Toning the canvas can enhance the glowing effect in your painting.
Use an oily mixture for initial sketches to keep them light and flexible.
Pay attention to the lines of receding hills to maintain variety and depth.
Painting light colors first helps maintain their vibrancy in glowing light scenes.
Using a black and white reference allows focus on value and composition.
Use the brush sideways to create a natural, clumpy grass effect.
Lighten the value and cool the color for distant hills to create depth.
Mixing with a palette knife helps create a large, consistent batch of color for thick applications.
In the final stages, focus on making your brushwork varied and interesting to enhance the overall impact of your painting.