Step by Step in-class
Watercolor Painting Demonstration
How to Paint Rocks and Snow in Zion National Park Step by step watercolor painting demonstration by
Roland Lee
A
sketching trip to Zion National Park during January 2010 was the stimulus
for this watercolor painting. I used the reference for a watercolor
demonstration during one of my St. George, UT Two-Day Watercolor Painting
Workshops in 2010. Thanks to Gayle Alger for shooting the video clips
during the class.
Watch
the 8-minute YouTube mini-video here, or download using the link below
1. I shot this reference photo while
hiking in Zion Canyon during January 2010. A fresh blanket of snow had
recently fallen. The air was crisp and the contrast of white against
the red sandstone rocks was exciting.
2. I begin with a small 3" x 5"
Thumbnail value study to help plan the overall design composition and
work out the darks and lights. With this study taped to my art board
I am ready to start the painting. Notice I am even planning that the
clouds in the sky will lead down to my center of interest.
3. I'm working on 140 lb. Arches Cold
Press watercolor paper, which is my favorite paper for smaller works.
I wet the sky area first, then drop in my colors using first Yellow
Ochre, then Cadmium red Light, followed by Ultramarine Blue, which gives
me the warm grays of the cloud shadow. As it begins to dry I block in
the big rock masses.
4. While painting I keep my value study
and reference photo nearby. I pay more attention to my value study than
the photo. I am simplifying the shapes to direct the viewer's attention
to the areas that are most important.
