Unusually, this was done from a photograph. Terry generally paints a Plein Air sketch as he finds this gives him a better sense of the subject composition. This picture was painted direct onto salvaged birch faced ply.
Stage 1
Stage 1. I make an outline pencil sketch and then fill in the basic blocks of colour to give the general composition shape. At this stage I use the cheapest paints scavenged from my daughters arts degree leftovers!
Stage 2
Stage 2. Having gotten the rough composition I then put a little more detail into the water and start to add some shadows to give a sense of depth.
Stage 3
Stage 3. Looking again at the water I have obviously gotten some of the middle ground wrong I correct the error.
Stage 4
Stage 4. More water detail in the middle ground and I start to look at the leaf strewn banks to the right. By this stage I have begun to use Professional grade paints which give a more lively feel.
Stage 5
Stage 5. More detail in the water generally and in the pool reflections in the foreground. I also lighten the background to increase the sense of distance. Hanging foliage (top right) increases the feeling of depth.
Stage 6 – Complete
Stage 6. The final product including better reflections, clear glazed.
