Location: Kikau Point, Kukio Resort
Size: 9" x 12"
Medium: Oil on stretched canvas
Artist's Comments: During one of my regular workshops with Lori Hight, I requested that we work on rendering shadows. I have always struggled with choosing the right value, shape and color especially when cool shadows appear on a warm surface like a sandy beach. I chose this scene because one of the primary elements are these wonderful palm frond shadows stretched across a beach path. We started our session with a value study of the scene using only one color and white. This would allow us to simplify the scene and see the value relationships between the subject. This value sketch took about 15 minutes to create but will be so helpful in working on the final painting. Then it was time to start on the actual painting. Lori guided me on selecting a little ultramarine, a little red and toning down with white before adding a bit of green. Shadows should reflect colors from the surrounding area. Bright pink bits from my underlying sketch popped up along the edges of the shadows creating a very warm interesting look. I decided to go back and add in some pink edges on a few more shadows and soon enough, I had created a wonderful study of shadows! I like how I was able to make these shadows feel "warm" and I think the bright pink accents bring that much needed warmth.
To view other paintings in my collection, click on the section labeled "View all SitaScapes" located at the top right of my blog. I have categorized my paintings by the month as I complete them.
