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 9Sea Wall and Beach Glow

How can I make the sea wall glow more in my painting?

To make the sea wall glow more in your painting, try making it warmer and lighter than it appears in the reference photo. This technique helps to create the effect of light bouncing off the beach, adding more color and vibrancy to your painting. For more detailed guidance, you can explore the full lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

Why should I make the sea wall warmer and lighter than in the photo?

Making the sea wall warmer and lighter than in the photo helps to give the appearance of light bouncing off the beach. This adds a glowing effect and enhances the overall color and vibrancy of your painting. To learn more about this technique and see it in action, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/77-Mediterranean-Harbour.

What effect does creating a glowing area around the beach have on the painting?

Creating a glowing area around the beach adds a sense of light and warmth to the painting, making it more dynamic and visually appealing. This technique helps to convey the effect of sunlight interacting with the landscape. For a deeper understanding of how to achieve this effect, check out the full lesson 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.