Capturing the play of light and shadow is a fundamental challenge for plein air painters, whether working in oils, acrylics, or watercolours. We learned this the hard way… The dynamic, ever-changing nature of natural illumination requires artists to develop a deep understanding of how to effectively manage the interplay between highlights, midtones, and shadows.
Achieving this balance is crucial for creating paintings that feel alive with atmosphere and depth. By mastering techniques for working with light and shadow, you can elevate your outdoor paintings, infusing them with a powerful sense of realism and vibrancy.
Harnessing the Power of North Light
One of the most revered forms of natural illumination for artists is north light. This indirect, softly diffused light is prized for its consistency and lack of harsh shadows. Many of the Old Masters, from Rembrandt to Vermeer, favoured north-facing studios to take advantage of this ideal painting light.
However, achieving true north light can be a challenge, especially for plein air painters. As Will Kemp of the Will Kemp Art School explains, “North light only works if your studio is in the Northern Hemisphere, as a North lit artist studio in the Southern hemisphere will face direct sunlight coming through the window.”
For those without a dedicated north-facing studio, the next best thing is to seek out shaded areas or overcast conditions that mimic the effect of north light. Landscape artist Mark Norseth notes that “overcast is good because it’s on such days that I find the ocean easiest to paint. In Hawai’i, perhaps unlike other areas, finding shade to work in is critical.”
Whether working in direct sunlight or under cloud cover, the key is to understand how the direction and quality of light affects the values and colours you observe in the landscape. Paying close attention to these nuances will help you make informed decisions about your painting approach.
Mastering the Art of Light and Shadow
Beyond just seeking out optimal lighting conditions, plein air painters might want to also develop a keen eye for observing and translating the interplay of light and shadow. Samuel Earp, a landscape artist and art coach, emphasizes the importance of understanding Carlson’s “Theory of Angles and Consequent Values”:
“Carlson recognized that any landscape typically possesses four groups of values (degrees of light and dark) affecting three major planes… the horizontal ground plane, the angle plane represented by mountain slopes, rooftops, etc., and finally an upright plane, perpendicular to the ground plane, which can include anything from trees and walls to a standing human.”
By simplifying the landscape into these key value patterns, artists can more effectively capture the essence of the scene and create a sense of depth and dimensionality. This foundational understanding allows you to make confident, purposeful choices about where to place your lightest lights, darkest darks, and midtone transitions.
Practical Plein Air Painting Techniques
Armed with a solid grasp of natural lighting principles, you can then apply a variety of practical techniques to translate these visual observations onto the canvas. According to a Reddit thread, some key considerations include:
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Working in the Shade: Seek out shaded areas or overcast conditions to avoid dealing with abrupt changes in sunlight and shadow during a painting session.
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Utilizing Portable Lighting: For low-light situations, a compact fluorescent or high-CRI LED light can provide a consistent, controllable source of illumination.
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Painting in Layers: Start with a toned ground and build up your values in successive layers, allowing each to dry thoroughly before adding the next. This helps you maintain control over your lights and darks.
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Carefully Observing Edges: Pay close attention to where hard and soft edges occur in the landscape, using these to guide your brushwork and reinforce the interplay of light and shadow.
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Simplifying Complex Scenes: Rather than trying to capture every detail, focus on the key shapes, values, and colour relationships that best convey the essence of the light and atmosphere.
By developing these types of practical plein air techniques, you can work more efficiently and confidently, producing paintings that capture the fleeting beauty of natural illumination.
The Creative Process: Balancing Spontaneity and Intentionality
Of course, working outdoors introduces a host of unpredictable variables that can challenge even the most seasoned plein air painter. Shifting light, changing weather, and sudden interruptions require a level of adaptability and problem-solving that studio work simply doesn’t demand.
This is where the balance between spontaneity and intentionality becomes crucial. As Mark Norseth observes, “I viewed these works as practice opportunities. Arranging elements, capturing fleeting effects, and convincingly drawn figures who were often there for moments at a time. It’s juggling and there’s never a dull moment.”
The ability to respond intuitively to the moment, while also maintaining a clear artistic vision, is what separates great plein air paintings from mere studies. It’s about cultivating a deep understanding of materials and techniques, then having the confidence to let go and let the magic of the moment guide your brush.
Putting it All Together
Mastering the interplay of light and shadow is an essential skill for any plein air painter seeking to capture the beauty and vitality of the natural world. By combining a solid grasp of lighting principles, practical painting techniques, and a creative, adaptable mindset, you can produce outdoor paintings that are as alive and atmospheric as the landscapes they depict.
Whether working in oils, acrylics, or watercolours, the keys to success are the same: keen observation, thoughtful composition, and a willingness to embrace the spontaneity of the moment. With practice and dedication, you can develop the tools necessary to strike that elusive balance between light and shadow, elevating your plein air work to new heights of expression and realism.
So venture out into the great outdoors, sketchbook and paintbox in hand, and let the dance of illumination and shadow inspire your creative vision. The rewards of capturing the fleeting beauty of natural light will be well worth the challenge.
Example: Pencil Portrait Challenge 2024