Step-by-step painting guide

Last Light

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

From the online lesson Last Light · Download the printable PDF

Learn to paint subtle greys versus vibrant colour. Follow me step by step as I show you the techniques I use to make subtle greys, glowing light and interesting texture with acrylics. This scene from Kinloch in the far south if New Zealand is the perfect subject to explore these powerful techniques.

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
"Last Light" 12x12" Acrylic on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
"Last Light" 12x12" Acrylic on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 10Background and Sky

Why does a neutral gray background appear bluish in this painting?

A neutral gray background appears bluish in this painting because it is surrounded by warm colors. This optical illusion occurs due to the contrast between the warm colors and the gray, making the gray seem cooler or bluish. For more insights on color interactions, you can explore the full lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/82-Last-Light.

How does using a gray background affect the foreground colors?

Using a gray background helps the more vibrant colors in the foreground stand out and look more vibrant. The contrast between the neutral gray and the colorful foreground enhances the vibrancy of the foreground elements. To learn more about creating contrast in your paintings, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/82-Last-Light.

What technique is used to create soft edges in the background?

To create soft edges in the background, the technique involves using the very tip of the brush to whisk the paint on, allowing for nice soft lost edges. This helps in creating a subtle and blended backdrop. For detailed techniques on achieving soft edges, check out the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/82-Last-Light.

How can you create layers of depth in the background?

You can create layers of depth in the background by gradually getting slightly darker as the layers come forward. This subtle change in tone helps to suggest depth and dimension. For more on creating depth in your paintings, you can explore the full lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/82-Last-Light.

Why is it important to avoid sharp edges in the background?

Avoiding sharp edges in the background is important because the background is meant to be a backdrop for the foreground, and soft edges help it recede visually. This technique ensures that the focus remains on the main elements in the foreground. For further guidance on edge control, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/82-Last-Light.

What is the challenge of painting with acrylics to achieve soft edges?

The challenge of painting with acrylics to achieve soft edges is that you have to paint really fast so the colors blend together before they dry. Acrylics dry quickly, so speed is essential for blending. To learn more about working with acrylics, you can explore the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/82-Last-Light.

How is light used in the background to enhance the painting?

Light is used in the background to enhance the painting by letting a little bit of light play over the background, preventing it from being all doom and gloom. However, this light is darker and greyer than the main tree in the foreground, maintaining the focus on the foreground. For more techniques on using light in your paintings, visit the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/82-Last-Light.

Summary & key takeaways

As we conclude this journey into capturing the 'Last Light', I hope you've discovered the magic of subtle warm and cool variations within your grays. This lesson was all about embracing the nuanced tones that the last light of the day offers, and how these can bring depth and realism to your paintings. From the initial sketch to the final details, each step was designed to help you see and paint these subtle shifts in color and light.

Throughout the process, we explored techniques like using burnt sienna for initial sketches, mixing ultramarine blue with burnt sienna for the darkest darks, and the importance of keeping your acrylics wet to achieve a soft, blended look. Each technique serves to enhance your ability to convey the mood and atmosphere of a scene bathed in the gentle glow of the setting sun.

I hope that as you continue your painting journey, you'll remember to play with color temperatures, keep your edges soft where needed, and allow yourself the freedom to experiment and adjust as you go. Painting is as much about the process as it is about the final piece, and each brushstroke is a step towards capturing the beauty of the world around you.

Points to remember
  • Experiment with warm and cool variations in your grays to add depth.
  • Use burnt sienna for initial sketches to establish warm, neutral bases.
  • Mix ultramarine blue with burnt sienna for deep, dark tones.
  • Keep your acrylics wet with a fine mist to achieve soft edges.
  • Introduce subtle color shifts to unify your painting.
  • Start with yellow as a base for greens to create natural transitions.
  • Use soft edges in the background to keep the focus on the foreground.
  • Paint quickly with acrylics to blend colors before they dry.