When you want to draw an object with realistic volume, or mass, it helps to be able to “see” the underlying shapes that make up that object. These aren’t complicated geometric patterns - basically, you’re just looking for shapes like circles. . . read more
Today I’m going to show you how can make your own pochade box out of a cigar box just like the old impressionist masters. Best of all, the total cost of making this little pochade box should be about $12.00.. . . read more
In a still life painting, every object’s color is affected by the colors of the objects around them. . . but white objects are affected more than most, which can make them very difficult to paint.. . . read more
Every watercolor painter should know how to properly apply color washes to their paper. In the following video, Susan Bourdet shows the entire process, starting with a preliminary drawing that has already been protected with masking fluid. . . read more
When painting from a photograph (or from life) it’s not always necessary to include the actual background that appears behind your subject. In many cases, a two or three-color background can be more pleasing. . . read more
In this short video from Creative Catalyst Productions, Carl Dalio shares some great tips on painting realistic figures inside landscape paintings. As you’ll see, it’s not about adding lots of detail. . . read more
When I first started painting, I bought many tubes of paint and relied heavily on “convenience” mixes in lieu of mixing my own colors. I felt that color theory was not only boring but over-rated. I could not have been more wrong!. . . read more
I do a lot of blending in my art, and after going through quite a few tortillons over the years, I decided to make my own. Luckily, tortillons are fairly easy to make. Here's my process:. . . read more
Photoshop comes with many built-in brushes that mimic natural media. Here are some basic techniques that you can use along with those brushes to create digital art that has the look and feel of traditional artwork. . . read more
If you need a fun art project you can do with your family on a cold winter day, keep on reading - I’m going to show you how to turn small, ornamental gourds into little holiday snowmen that the entire family will enjoy.. . . read more