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
- Oil on Ampersand Gessoboard. 18 x 24 inches.
- Main colors: Ultramarine blue, cobalt blue, cadmium red, alizarin crimson, cadmium yellow, viridian green, and titanium white.
Refer to my supplies list for more details on what I use.
Notes
- The big idea of this painting is the shimmering light on the water. I also like the way the water weaves between the leaves. I provide some tips for painting shimmering light in this newsletter.
- I painted directly onto the white surface rather than applying a thin wash of color as I often do. As it is such a light scene, I felt a dark surface might work against me.
- The sketch is extremely basic. Nothing more than a few rough marks on the surface. I chose to just jump into it and see where my brush took me.
- I painted in a direct style, starting at one point and working on it until near finish, then moving onto the next. I drew inspiration from a Russian artist named Chirun Ilya.
- I used thick, multicolored strokes for the rocks and leaves. I focused on capturing as much information as possible with just a few strokes.
Progress Shots
Step 1: A simple sketch, focusing on key lines and shapes.
Step 2: Lay down the light blues of the water and sky.
Step 3: Work on the dark green and yellow leaves.
Step 4: Use dark blue for the shadows cast on the water. Try to capture the ebbs and flows of the water.
Step 5: Work on the grass and shimmering light.
Step 6: Use thick, multicolored strokes to suggest the rocky shoreline.
Step 7: Bring it all together.
Step 8: Refine and detail.
Step 9: Sign and photograph the finished painting.
Additional Resources
Thanks for Reading!
Thanks for taking the time to read this post. I appreciate it! Feel free to share with friends. If you want more painting tips, check out my Painting Academy course.
Happy painting!
Dan Scott
Draw Paint Academy