Windmill Viewpoint: From Concept to Completion
Creating a painting is a journey, a process that begins with an idea and elevate to a vivid expression of that vision. Here, I'll walk you through the step-by-step process of my most recent painting, which captures the picturesque landscape in Phuket, Thailand.
I used yellow paint with a large brushstroke to sketch the foundational lines that guided the entire composition. In the first stage, I planned out the scene's main elements: the gentle slopes of the viewpoint, the tranquil Ya Noi Beach, and the distant Phrom Thep Cape, with the sun setting on the right side of the canvas.
After completing the basic structure, the next step was to block in the primary colors. With broad strokes of yellow, purple, and blue, I began to lay down the color palette that would define the piece. This stage was critical in determining the overall mood and atmosphere. The vibrant colors may have appeared stark at first, but they would blend together as the painting progressed.
Next, I started to refine the landscape by adding layers and depth. The green hues of the hillside began to emerge, and the interaction of light and shadow became more defined. The midground beach area was highlighted with gentle shades that hinted at the delicate waves and sand texture.
I then focused on the details. This stage entailed adding texture and fine-tuning the elements. The ruggedness of Phrom Thep Cape, the ripples in the water, and the nuances of the beach were brought to life. The colors began to blend more naturally, giving the painting a more cohesive and realistic appearance.
Light and shadow played critical roles in bringing the painting to life. During this stage, I concentrated on enhancing these elements, particularly the golden glow of the setting sun and the shadows it cast across the landscape. The contrast between illuminated and shaded areas gave the scene dimensions and depths, making it more dynamic.
The final stage focused on refinement and perfection. Small color adjustments, additional details, and finishing touches were added to ensure that the painting captured the core characteristics of the Phuket sunset. The sun's reflection in the water, the intricate lines of the waves, and the overall color harmony all worked together to complete the piece.
Thank you for joining me on this creative journey. See you in the next painting!