Where To Start When Painting Seascape Oil Paintings
May 14, 2011An artist looking to create a long, successful career may want to consider specializing in seascape oil paintings. This popular genre has enjoyed success over several centuries and its popularity continues today. Office buildings all over the world favor paintings of a ship at sea. That may be because the sight of the sea in motion seems to have a calming effect on those gazing upon it.
There are many types of seascapes, from those which feature sailing ships to ones with waves crashing upon the rocks to peaceful deserted beaches featuring a gently lapping tide. The common denominator in every one is the sea. No matter which type an artist chooses to paint, he will need to learn how to realistically portray the action of the waves.
In order to paint the sea, some would think that the color blue, with a little white would be the only colors needed. That would not be true. There is more to the painting of the sea than initially meets the eye. In order to paint professionally, one must assemble a much broader palette.
The sea consists of many colors. If you look closely, you will see shades and hues that you may not have considered. Browns, greens and purples hide within the varying hues of the basic blue. The darkest colors are in the deepest water. Lighter colors show up where there is a sand bar or in areas closer to the beach where the water is shallower. Without considering these nuances, it would be impossible to paint a professional looking piece of art.
Other considerations need to be taken with the individual waves. Each wave should be darkest at the bottom with lighter shades applied in graduating degrees moving upwards. The lightest portion, sometimes consisting of a little green mixed into the white is saved for the area where the wave crests or for the foamy area spilling from the break.
Blending and varying the colors throughout the entire water area will give you the appearance of movement in the water. This is most easily done by using a sideways back and forth movement of your brush, alternating the length of the stroke.
When the water portion of the seascape oil painting has been completed, the artist can turn to the chore of adding other items of interest such as beaches, palm trees, ships or rocks. An artist who masters this genre can reasonably expect to be in demand for a long time.
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