This painting was inspired by another painting I'd previously done, and it's much closer to the way I paint for myself, albeit faster and with much fewer layers and changes. I think because of that I both like this one and find it to be super awkward (hah!). When painting for myself, I do tend to paint quite small like this. Once I have a painting worked out, I decide what I do and don't like and what things I should change. If I really like the painting, I take all of those lessons from the small version, and I paint a larger version.
Now, if I were to take this painting to a larger version, I would spend a little more time planning my composition. There was no planning to this one, and because of that, I feel like the sun is in a really awkward place. I'd like to have it closer to the clump of trees on the right, closer to the horizon, and with more opportunity for reflection in the water. Aside from the compositional issues, I would just clearly spend more time and energy in the elements. Because this is close to how I personally paint, I think it looks rushed. Other than those things, I super love the sky! I'm really glad I jumped in and just did those dark clouds even though I was afraid to :)
Ready to get started on your own sunset river? Check out the materials list and video below. Amazon links are affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps me continue to bring you free painting videos! Yay!
Materials list
Fredrix canvas sheet (cut and glued to a foamboard)
Fuzzbert #8 filbert (or any old, small, puffy brush)
Colors
Jane, I LOVE the dark clouds, this is an absolutely beautiful painting. You really do have so much courage you do inspire me to try painting things I thought I could never ever do, thank you for that at this time in my life. I am not a LEO for nothing!