Daily Painting Practice in Maine - Seascape- Waves and Rocks

Painting Waves

Not wasting any time here. I am jumping into the water. Not literally, but  definately with paint.

5"x7"  Color  Sketch - capturing the idea

This is my color sketch.  I took a video of our day at Schoodic Point in Acadia National Park. That helped me  remember the fog that was  slowly lifting while the tide was coming in.

First step -  block in the darks

I divided the canvas into  thirds and tried to get the focal point near one of the intersecting  points. In this case the tip of the breaking wave.

Keeping the colors on the grey side

Muted colors and loose (very loose brush work)...If only I can keep it that way.

To paint the ocean  you must paint the motion

Everything is moving in this painting. I have to keep reminding myself that the brush work can't feel static.

Underpainting Complete

This may sound strange but, for me the under painting acts like a map. It helps me understand the  topography of the forms, then I  have a better idea of how to correct the colors and values. I try to think like a sculptor. ( when I don't everything goes flat).

 At this point I can begin to  think about which way the water  is moving and to emphasize the focal point.

This one will take a little bit of work but I like the feel of it.