Snowed In

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

Learn to paint this classic snowy scene, step by step. This scene was just begging to be painted. Even without snow it was great, but the snow was literally the icing on the cake. Join me as I take you through this beautiful painting step by step. You’ll learn how to paint snow in sunlight and shade, create a glowing colour effect, and how to simplify complex detail.

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

"Snowed In" 14x14" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 9Reflected light in foreground snow

How do you create the effect of reflected light in the shadow of foreground snow?

To create the effect of reflected light in the shadow of foreground snow, you should mix a color that is slightly lighter and slightly yellower than the base shadow color of the snow. This reflects the warm light from the spotlight area. For more detailed guidance, you can explore the full lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

What should the reflected light in the snow resemble?

The reflected light in the snow should resemble the warm light from the spotlight area, making it slightly lighter and yellower than the existing shadow color. This technique helps to mimic how light interacts with surfaces, similar to ripples in water reflecting their surroundings. For further insights, visit the lesson page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

What analogy is used to describe the reflection in the snow?

The analogy used is that of ripples in water, where the far side of the ripples reflects the sky or whatever is directly behind it. This concept helps in understanding how the snow can reflect light and color from its surroundings. To delve deeper into this technique, check out the lesson at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

Can the same color used for reflected light in snow be applied elsewhere in the painting?

Yes, the same color used for the reflected light in the snow can be applied to other areas, such as the side window of the truck in the painting. It's a good idea to experiment with this, as you can always scrape it off or paint over it if it doesn't work. For more tips on experimenting with colors, visit https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

← Step 8: Building shadows and light on the building Step 10: Simplifying details and adding texture →

Summary & key takeaways

As we wrap up our 'Snowed In' painting journey, I hope you've enjoyed exploring the delicate balance of light and shadow, and the subtle nuances of color that bring a snowy scene to life. From the initial sketch to the final touches, each step was designed to guide you in capturing the essence of a winter landscape, with the red truck as our focal point.

Throughout this lesson, my aim was to help you see how strategic composition and thoughtful color mixing can transform a blank canvas into a vibrant scene. By focusing on big shapes first and gradually refining details, we maintained the painting's overall harmony and depth. I trust that these techniques will empower you to create more dynamic and engaging artworks in the future.

Remember, painting is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Each brushstroke is an opportunity to learn and grow as an artist. Keep experimenting, trust your instincts, and most importantly, enjoy the process.

Points to remember

Use walnut oil to improve paint flow.
Sketch big shapes first, then refine.
Mix grays to add depth and versatility.
Establish light and shadow with thin layers.
Contrast warm subjects with cool backgrounds.
Add warmth to snowy scenes with subtle colors.
Use big brushes for gestural strokes in snow.
Reflect light in snow to enhance realism.