Step-by-step painting guide

Mediterranean Harbour

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

Learn to paint stunning mediterranean harbour scenes. Follow me step by step as I show you the techniques I use to paint this impressionistic harbour scene. Raising the overall colour vibrancy, glowing light, transparent water and impressionistic brushwork 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
"Mediterranean Harbour" 11x13" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
"Mediterranean Harbour" 11x13" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 13Impasto Technique for Light

How do you create the impasto effect for light in a painting?

To create the impasto effect for light, you should mix big globs of paint and apply them thickly to the canvas. This technique is often seen in impressionist paintings, where the thick chunks of paint catch the light and sparkle. Remember to mix more paint than you think you'll need, as the impasto technique requires a generous amount. For more detailed guidance, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

Why is it important to use more paint than you think you'll need for impasto?

Using more paint than you initially think you'll need is crucial for achieving the impasto effect because it allows you to create those thick, textured layers that define the technique. The extra paint ensures you can build up the necessary volume to catch the light effectively. For further insights on this technique, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

What is the technique for picking up paint to apply it in an impasto style?

When applying paint in an impasto style, use the tips of your brush to push into the paint pile rather than dragging it. This method allows the paint to clump on the end of the brush, so you can lay it down onto the canvas in a big, textured clump. This technique is demonstrated further in the lesson available at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

Why is walnut oil not used in the lights for this painting?

Walnut oil is not used in the lights for this painting to keep the paint thick and textured. The absence of oil helps the paint maintain its volume and allows it to stand out from the canvas, enhancing the impasto effect. For more on this technique, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

How does the use of impasto contribute to the sense of space in a painting?

Impasto contributes to the sense of space in a painting by using thicker paint in the foreground and smoother paint in the background. This variation in texture helps create a sense of recession and depth, making the foreground elements appear closer. To explore this technique further, visit https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

Summary & key takeaways

As we conclude our journey through the Mediterranean Harbour painting, I hope you've embraced the vibrant interplay of light and shadow that defines this scene. We began with a dynamic composition, carefully sketching the boats and village to set the stage for a lively depiction of this picturesque locale. By adjusting the horizon and experimenting with perspective, we created a balanced and engaging composition that draws the viewer into the scene.

Throughout the painting process, we focused on establishing strong dark values first, which provided a solid foundation for the vibrant colors to shine. The use of walnut oil and careful color mixing allowed us to achieve rich, deep shadows and glowing highlights. By paying attention to the way light bounces into shadow areas, we infused the painting with warmth and life, capturing the essence of a sunlit Mediterranean day.

I hope this lesson has encouraged you to explore color variation and the power of clean, vibrant hues. By observing and enhancing the colors in your reference, you can bring a unique energy to your work. Remember, each brushstroke is an opportunity to express your vision and bring your painting to life.

Points to remember
  • Start with a dynamic composition by adjusting the horizon line.
  • Establish dark values first to create a strong foundation.
  • Use walnut oil to enhance paint fluidity and blending.
  • Observe how light bounces into shadows to add color richness.
  • Mix grays using yellow ochre for a more neutral tone.
  • Clean your brush thoroughly when changing colors to avoid muddiness.
  • Enhance shadow colors beyond what is seen in photos for vibrancy.
  • Lighten and warm shadows to suggest light bouncing back into them.