In this chapter, I invite you to join me on a creative journey to capture a classic snowy scene that simply begged to be painted. While exploring a quiet corner of Glenorchy, I stumbled upon an old Bedford truck, its weathered charm beautifully accentuated by a fresh blanket of snow. The snow transformed the scene into a visual delight, much like icing on a cake, making it irresistible to paint. Together, we'll explore how to depict snow in both sunlight and shade, creating a glowing color effect that brings the scene to life. You'll learn techniques to simplify complex details, allowing the essence of the scene to shine through. I chose a square format for this workshop to enhance the spotlight effect by subtly darkening the background and foreground, but feel free to interpret it in any format you prefer. This rewarding subject offers a wonderful opportunity to refine your skills and express your artistic vision. Let's dive in and see how this evocative scene was painted, step by step.
This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.
"Snowed In" 14x14" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
Step 6Adding warmth and glow to background
Add Warmth to the Background
Introduce a hint of warmth to the background by incorporating a little winter color in the trees. Use soft edges and big strokes with thin paint to create a subtle light catching the willow tree.
Create a Subtle Color Gradation
Warm up the background by adding a touch of yellow ochre as you move towards the top. This will create a very subtle gradation of color, enhancing the depth and warmth of the scene.
Paint Indistinct Background Details
Depict the snowy hill and climbing bushes with broad horizontal strokes and a few bushy shapes. Keep the edges soft and the details indistinct to maintain the background's subtlety.
Set Up a Glow Behind the Truck
Establish a glow in the background near the top of the sunlit truck. Use a pinky mixture close to the truck to create a warm effect that will enhance the composition later.
Pro tipUse soft edges and thin paint to maintain subtlety in the background.
As you embark on painting 'Snowed In,' begin by setting up your canvas and gathering the necessary tools and materials. Start with a thin sketch to outline the composition, focusing on the big shapes and refining them into smaller details. Use thin paint to allow for easy adjustments as you establish the scene's structure. Mix your grays thoughtfully to create a range of tones that will add depth and contrast to your painting.
Move on to establishing light and shadow, using a warm base layer to guide your subsequent applications of color. Block in the darks and background, ensuring the truck remains the focal point by contrasting it against cooler tones. As you add warmth and glow to the background, use soft edges and thin paint to maintain subtlety and depth. Focus on painting the big shapes with gestural strokes, keeping the details minimal to enhance the overall composition.
In the final stages, concentrate on the details and textures that bring your painting to life. Use broad strokes and a limited palette to maintain harmony, and remember to clean your brush frequently to keep colors vibrant. As you make final adjustments, ensure the balance between light and shadow is maintained, and use soft brushes to blend elements seamlessly into the background. With these steps, your painting will capture the serene beauty of a snowy landscape, inviting viewers into its tranquil scene.
Points to remember
Use long bristle flat brushes for broad strokes and synthetic brushes for finer details.
Sketch the composition with thin paint for easy adjustments.
Mix grays to modify colors or apply them directly on the canvas.
Use a thin mixture of yellow ochre and walnut oil to establish a warm base.
Use soft edges and thin paint to maintain subtlety in the background.
Clean your brush after each stroke to keep light colors bright.
Use a big brush to maintain gestural strokes and focus on big shapes.
Use a soft dry brush to gently soften sharp edges in the background.
