Step-by-step painting guide

Up the Creek

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

Simplifying a scene and using bold brushwork. Follow me step by step as I show you the techniques I use to simplify a complex scene and bring out the best of a subject with exciting brushwork.

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
"Up the Creek" 11x14" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
"Up the Creek" 11x14" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 13Water reflection technique

How do you achieve the reflective look of water in a painting?

To achieve the reflective look of water, you can add more blue and white as you move towards the middle of the water, especially where it's vertically underneath a big light shape in the background. This technique helps create the illusion of reflection. For more detailed guidance, you can visit the lesson page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/81-Up-the-Creek.

What colors should be used to reflect the grasses on the side of the bank in a water painting?

To reflect the grasses on the side of the bank in your water painting, you should incorporate the colors of the grasses into your water reflections. This ensures that the water reflects its surroundings accurately. For more tips on painting reflections, check out the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/81-Up-the-Creek.

How can you achieve a purer, lighter blue in the center of a water reflection?

To achieve a purer, lighter blue in the center of a water reflection, clean your brush before applying the lighter blue. This helps maintain the purity of the color, making the reflection more vibrant. For further techniques on painting water reflections, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/81-Up-the-Creek.

What technique can be used to add perspective to water reflections?

To add perspective to water reflections, you can use a few dashes of horizontal strokes across the surface. This technique helps to enhance the depth and realism of the water. For more detailed instructions, you can explore the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/81-Up-the-Creek.

Why is it important to practice brush strokes before painting them on water reflections?

Practicing brush strokes before applying them to water reflections is important because it helps you achieve the desired effect in one smooth stroke. This practice can make your reflections appear more natural and fluid. For more painting tips and techniques, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/81-Up-the-Creek.

What breathing technique is suggested when painting horizontal strokes on water reflections?

When painting horizontal strokes on water reflections, it's suggested to breathe out as you make the stroke. This can help you maintain a steady hand and create smoother lines. For additional painting techniques, you can refer to the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/81-Up-the-Creek.

Summary & key takeaways

In this painting journey, I set out to capture the essence of a serene creek scene, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow, and the striking contrast between the foreground and background. By honing in on key elements like the brightly lit foreground and the shape of the tree, I aimed to create a composition that speaks to the viewer without overwhelming them with too many details. Simplifying the background was crucial in ensuring that the foreground remained the star of the show, allowing the painting to convey a clear and powerful message.

Throughout the process, I experimented with various techniques to enhance depth and interest, such as adjusting the viewing angle and adding subtle variations in color. These adjustments helped to create a more dynamic composition, drawing the viewer's eye to the focal points of the painting. By carefully planning the initial sketch and considering the placement of light and shadow, I was able to establish a strong foundation for the painting, ensuring that each element contributed to the overall harmony of the piece.

As you embark on your own painting adventures, I hope you take away the importance of focusing on key elements, simplifying where necessary, and using color and composition to guide the viewer's eye. Remember, the goal is to create a painting that not only captures the scene but also evokes a sense of place and emotion.

Points to remember
  • Focus on fewer elements to strengthen the painting's message.
  • Simplify the background to enhance the foreground's impact.
  • Adjust the viewing angle to create a tighter, more focused composition.
  • Use segmented shapes for natural features like stream banks.
  • Plan your initial sketch to balance composition and light.
  • Mix darkest darks with a touch of color for depth.
  • Add color variation in dark areas to avoid flatness.
  • Use warm greens for foliage to contrast with cooler backgrounds.