Welcome to this chapter on capturing the enchanting atmosphere of Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, California. This scene holds a special place in my heart as it was painted during my first visit to this beautiful location, amidst the bustling energy of a plein air painting convention. Surrounded by fellow artists, I found myself captivated by the vibrant colors and the remarkable atmospheric perspective that California offers. Unlike the subtler effects I encounter back home in New Zealand, the light and atmosphere here naturally create a stunning depth and mystery without the need for exaggeration. In this lesson, we will explore how to harness this atmospheric perspective to enhance the sense of distance in your painting. By learning to lighten and desaturate colors as they recede, you will be able to mimic the natural effects of the atmosphere, adding a layer of intrigue to your work. Whether you follow along step by step or infuse your own creativity, this scene promises to be a rewarding subject for any painter. Enjoy the journey!
This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.
"Fisherman's Wharf" 12x12" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson
Step 20Painting Shadows and Avoiding Details
Paint the Poles
Use a larger brush with a darker grey mixture to paint the big poles. Keep them straight and simple, varying the spacing for an interesting rhythm. Avoid equal spacing for a more dynamic composition.
Adjust the Pole Values
Brush across the poles sideways to ensure the value appears darker. This helps counteract any sheen from lighting that might make them look lighter than they are.
Add Darkest Shadows
Apply the darkest shadow area right under the big poles. Focus on capturing the large shapes rather than small details.
Avoid Details
Squint at your subject to see the big shapes and avoid painting small details and ripples. Keep your focus on the overall composition.
Pro tipSquint at your subject to focus on big shapes and avoid unnecessary details.
Embark on your painting journey by mastering atmospheric perspective, which is crucial for creating depth. Start by sketching your composition, establishing a strong foundation with the horizon line and main objects. As you block in shapes, remember to avoid dividing your canvas in half to maintain balance and harmony. Use atmospheric perspective to push elements into the distance, creating a sense of space and depth.
As you progress, pay attention to mixing and applying dark values, bending colors, and working with midtones. These steps will help you capture subtle variations and maintain the correct value relationships throughout your painting. Plein air painting can enhance your ability to perceive colors and details that photographs might miss, enriching your overall painting experience.
Finally, focus on refining your painting by simplifying complex areas and adjusting value structures. Use techniques like glazing and loose brushwork to add interest and texture. As you paint details like poles and shadows, maintain a dynamic composition by varying spacing and using your whole arm for straight strokes. With practice, these techniques will enhance your ability to create depth and realism in your paintings.
Points to remember
Use lighter and less saturated colors for distant objects to enhance atmospheric perspective.
Utilize scale and atmospheric perspective to enhance depth in your painting.
Use the horizon line to guide the perspective and placement of all other elements in your composition.
Ensure buildings are either slightly separated or overlapping to avoid them 'kissing'.
Use walnut oil to thin the paint for smooth coverage without leaving canvas exposed.
Analyze each color's hue and adjust it by adding complementary colors to shift it on the color wheel.
Photographs often oversimplify dark areas, so rely on observation to capture subtle variations.
Keep the sky's value between white and the shadow value of the distant building for balance.
