How to Paint Overlapping Objects

Let’s take a look at how to paint overlapping objects. As you might already know, I’ve been working on a tree series lately. The main challenge with this series has been dealing with the complex arrangement of overlapping objects. All the leaves, branches, sky, grass, dappled light, and shadows are so tightly woven together it … Read more

Throwback to My Childhood Paintings

I found some of my childhood paintings the other day. They were stored away in a dusty corner of my parents’ garage. I figured you might like to see them. They aren’t masterpieces, but they are invaluable to me as they represent the start of my lifelong journey at the easel. I always find it interesting … Read more

On the Easel: Gold Coast, Path to the Sea

Below is Gold Coast, Path to the Sea. I painted this almost entirely with palette knives. I wanted to capture that day’s cool sea breeze, warm sunlight, and crisp colors. Reference Photo and Study Here’s the reference photo I painted from: Feel free to paint it yourself. I didn’t paint a study for this. Sometimes I … Read more

On the Easel: Maryvale, Sunny Landscape

Just a simple one today: Maryvale, Sunny Landscape. Reference Photo and Study Here’s the reference photo I painted from: Feel free to paint it yourself if you like. I also did a couple of color studies for this painting (top left and middle): Details Oil on stretched canvas. 16×20 inches. Main colors: Ultramarine blue, cobalt … Read more

On the Easel: Wellington Point, Shimmering Light

Below is Wellington Point, Shimmering Light. Perhaps my favorite painting from this year. Reference Photo and Study Here’s the reference photo I painted from: Feel free to paint it for yourself. Just let me know how you go. Details Refer to my supplies list for more details on what I use. Notes Progress Shots Step … Read more

On the Easel: Wellington Point, High Contrast

Below is Wellington Point, High Contrast. This was a fun one. It’s a play of broken color and contrast. Reference Photo and Study Here’s the reference photo: Feel free to try and paint it for yourself. Just let me know how you go. Details Refer to my supplies list for more details on what I … Read more

On the Easel: Wellington Point

Below is a painting I did earlier this year, Wellington Point. It captures the beach’s glimmering colors and the tree’s dappled light. Reference Photo and Study Here’s the reference photo I painted from: I also painted a small color study in preparation: Details Refer to my supplies list for more details on what I use. … Read more

Paintings That Break the Composition Rules

I curated a selection of paintings that break the typical composition rules, yet work. The idea is to demonstrate that composition is not a black and white area. The rules and theories exist for a reason in that they work most of the time. But they should be treated more so as guidelines or suggestions … Read more

On the Easel: Sunrise, Bribie Island

Below is Sunrise, Bribie Island. It’s a peaceful yet chaotic painting. Crashing waves, dramatic sunlight, and not another person in sight. Reference Photo and Study Below is the reference photo I painted from, plus a grid and grayscale version created using my free reference photo tool. I also painted a small study to clarify my … Read more

Wise Words From the Impressionists

The top Impressionists have inspired me since my late teens. Not just for their beautiful paintings, but also for their outlook on life, art, and their constant search for light, color, and life’s fleeting moments. Below are some of my favorite Impressionist quotes. There are some wise words here. “Everything that is painted directly and … Read more