The importance of shadows in a painting is often underestimated. Shadows help define the form of any object. Unfortunately, they are often one of the most difficult elements to master in watercolour.
For shadows to be successful, they must be transparent or have light in them. There is an old rule that says “warm light casts cool shadows; cool light casts warm shadows”. However, this doesn't apply to all situations but it's still a good place to start.
For shadows to be successful, they must be transparent or have light in them. There is an old rule that says “warm light casts cool shadows; cool light casts warm shadows”. However, this doesn't apply to all situations but it's still a good place to start.
Like most other aspects of watercolours, having a good sense of observation is a requirement for great shadows. Unfortunately, shadows in photos don't always capture all the colours you'd see in real life. Avoid black or grays when painting shadows. Instead use complementary colours. These colours darken each other while lowering their vibrancy and neutralizing the other without creating a dull colour as a result.
I completed the following painting a couple of days ago. It's meant to be a companion to the other watercolour with 35+ hot air balloons that I completed about a week ago. It was a welcome relief to paint something simpler.
Without shadows this painting looks like a kid's colouring book.
 |
| 18" X 24" - Title TBD |
During my upcoming workshop, I'll be painting a geranium bloom with a bee. I'm also painting some rocks from a trip in the Lake Placid area.
Have a great week,
Comments
Post a Comment
Feel free to comment on the post and painting of the week.