Hi Friends, Sharing a bit about my quest to understand clouds more intimately in order to paint larger works in the future. Also, for those who would like to view more of my work you can find a variety of work on my companion Website. Thanks for looking!
“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water. Or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”
~John Lubbock
I’ve had my head tilted upwards on a daily basis. Observing the array of cloud formations, while making mental notes regarding their color and structure. It’s amazing how quickly some drift along, while others seem to hover for longer lengths of time.
To understand them better, I decided it would be a great exercise to paint individual cloud studies. That way I could acquire a better understanding without the distraction of any landscape elements.
Cloud Studies
So I began my quest to document individual or small groups of clouds. I have to say it was an absolute delight to paint this little cumulus cloud pictured above. I loved how she just seemed to float along on her toned paper home.
I learned a lot about the subtle shifts in color, how a cumulus cloud flattens on the bottom portion and how they interact with light. After I finished painting, I recorded various color notes of paint mixtures I used. I also recorded the time of day, as clouds are influenced by where the sun sits in the sky.
Resources:
I am really enjoying and learning from the section on clouds in John E. Carlson’s book, “Carlson’s Guide to Landscape Painting”. Not only does he speak about painting techniques and the structure of clouds, but he also eludes to our emotional response to them. Love this line from his book when he speaks about cumulus clouds.
”A cumulus cloud somewhat resembles a soap bubble floating upon water, its top rounded, its bottom flat.”
I have also discovered a wonderful artist and teacher on YouTube by the name of Janhendrik Dolsma. He specializes in cloud painting, he’s very relaxing to listen to and is a great teacher. I purchased a couple of his tutorials (very reasonably priced!).
He has an archived Blog with a wealth of information as well.
I’ve been browsing the sections on clouds/skies in some of my studio books as well. And of course my own daily observations and oil studies are invaluable resources.
Do you have any references on clouds you find helpful—whether for a painter or not. Field Guides are also useful? Love to hear your references!
Warmly,
Debbie xx
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