| This is an old chapel located in Cambria, California. It was built in
the 1870's for $100.00! It's been a subject that I have returned to
quite often. Located on a hilltop just above the old part of the town of
Cambria, it is quite peaceful.
This watercolor was very challenging to say the least. Because of the
perspective, the drawing took quite a bit of time. But I must admit, I
enjoyed it.
I dropped the horizon line lower than my reference material stated,
and placed the two vanishing points in their proper positions, and then
began drawing...very carefully. But of course, considering the subject,
the single most motivating factor for me was the beautiful shadows that
were being cast across the face of the chapel. |
After Hours
by Robert Reynolds
|
| Shadows can be as elusive to paint as clouds. Too sharp,
and they will not ring with authenticity. Too soft, and they look like
the wood surface is not clean. So it takes a careful balance of soft to
sharp focus and various contrasts of value.
Of course, color plays an important role because the shadows
(along with the values) change colors as they pass along the surface.
Reflected light will change the color of the shadows, especially in this
case, the ones that are lower to the ground. The bounced light from the
ground will alter the color of the shadows.
Much of this painting was executed in a manner that is called
"dry brush". The first washes were generous with the water
component, but then later in the painting process, I used less water
with the pigment.
The dark trees really added a nice contrast to the almost white
chapel and they became a design element within the painting.
I hope you enjoy the results. |
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