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 4Perspective and Dark Colors

How do you create the dark color for the side of the blue boat?

To create the dark color for the side of the blue boat, you simply add a little more blue to your existing dark color. This helps achieve the right shade for that specific area. For more detailed guidance on color mixing, you can visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

What is two-point perspective and how is it applied in this painting?

Two-point perspective is a drawing method where lines converge at two separate points on the horizon. In this painting, the angle of the seats in the boats converge to a single point on the right, while the lines of the sides of the boats converge to a single point on the left. This technique helps create depth and realism in your artwork. You can explore more about perspective techniques on the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

How do you mix a dark aquamarine green for the water in the foreground?

To mix a dark aquamarine green for the water in the foreground, you add a little yellow to your blue. This combination creates the desired dark green shade that is perfect for depicting the water. For more tips on color mixing, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

Why do you add more walnut oil to the dark colors than to the light colors?

More walnut oil is added to the dark colors to make them thinner and easier to cover the canvas. This allows the darks to be applied smoothly and creates a base for the lights to sit on top later. You can learn more about this technique and its benefits by visiting the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

What is the advantage of comparing 'likes to likes' in painting?

Comparing 'likes to likes' means comparing similar values, such as darks to darks or lights to lights. This approach makes it easier to judge the relative values and colors in your painting, ensuring a more harmonious result. For further insights into this method, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

How do you ensure that the lights will sit well on top of the darks?

To ensure that the lights will sit well on top of the darks, you leave gaps in the dark areas where the lights will be applied later. This method allows the lights to stand out and not be muddied by the underlying darks. For more techniques on layering colors, check out the sales page at 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.