Landscape painting brings the beauty of nature to life on canvas. It’s a favorite among artists of all levels, and this guide aims to provide a better understanding of its many dimensions. Below, you’ll find different topics within the realm of landscape painting and links to the articles that cover these topics in detail.
Scumbling Painting Technique: Beginner’s Guide
Scumbling is a painting technique that can be used to add depth and dimension to a painting. Artists also use the technique to create texture. It is often used in conjunction with other painting techniques, such as glazing, to create a complex and nuanced painting. The effects that can be achieved with scumbling could be described as loose or painterly.
It is similar to the dry brushing technique, which is a technique used in oil, acrylic and watercolour painting. However, the scumbling technique can also be used with drawing media!
In this guide, find out what the scumbling technique is and how to try it for yourself to add a new dimension to your artworks.
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Scumbling definition
Scumbling is a painting technique, in which a thin layer of opaque or semi-opaque color is applied over a dry base, the layer will be applied in such a way so that it appears broken. The colour beneath will be visible to the viewer, which creates variation and interest. Artists can apply the paint with a scrubbing motion, to create the scratchy looking surface texture. This technique is often used with lighter, opaque pigments, to brighten dark shadow areas.
The technique works to alter previous layers of colour. When the broken paint film of the scumbled layer is seen next to colours in previous layers, the viewer’s eyes will mix colours optically. This creates a kind of optical illusion for the viewer. This is because the marks of two disparate colours, with one overlaying the other, look as if they have been mixed, when the viewer stands back from the artwork.
How to use the scumbling technique in a painting
There are various ways to use scumbling in a painting. You can either use it for the entire painting or for specific areas that you want to draw attention to.
Scumbling is typically done with a brush that has stiff bristles, such as a hog’s hair brush for oil painting or a stiff synthetic brush for acrylic painting. You can use this technique with watercolour, but use a soft brush that is slightly drier to apply paint.
Despite the medium you use, make sure to work on a dry surface with this technique. It works better with a brush that is a little drier and with thicker paint if you’re using oil or acrylic paint.
The paint is applied in a light layer over the surface of the painting, in quick sweeping motions. This is because the purpose of scumbling isn’t to achieve fine detail, but to emulate the appearance of texture. Previous layers of colour will show through, where the stiff brush marks break the surface of the wet paint. For example, J.M.W Turner used the scumbling technique to create the effect of fog in the distance.
Be expressive and gestural with your brush, this way you’ll be most likely to achieve more texture and get paint on the surface faster.
The brush doesn’t have to be completely loaded with paint, you could absorb some of the excess paint with a paper towel to create a scumble with a dry brush. Swipe the brush across the surface to achieve an broken and rough texture. The dry brush technique works especially well for wet and runny media like watercolour or gouache paint, where it is necessary to use a soft brush.
Tips for Beginners
Starting with landscape painting is an exciting journey. Here are some foundational tips to set you on the right path:
Start with a Sketch: Outline your composition to plan the elements, helping to prevent mistakes once you start painting.
Understand Perspective : Study vanishing points and horizon lines to create realistic depth and proportion in your landscapes.
Play with Light : Experiment with various lighting conditions to add dimension and mood, such as the warm glow of a sunset.
Choosing the Right Materials
The right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to selecting the best materials for your landscapes:
Oil Paints : Known for their ease of blending; practice layering and glazing techniques to create depth.
Watercolors: Great for delicate landscapes; try wet-on-wet techniques to create soft transitions.
Acrylics : Versatile for beginners; experiment with texture by using palette knives or sponges.
Brushes : Different shapes serve different purposes; use round brushes for fine details and flat brushes for broad strokes.
Creating Atmosphere
Capturing the atmosphere can transform your landscapes. Consider these aspects to evoke feelings and realism:
Color Theory : Explore how colors interact and evoke emotions; use cool blues for a calming scene or bold reds for energy.
Weather Effects: Practice painting fog, rain, or wind effects to add drama and realism to your landscapes.
Time of Day: Explore painting at different times, from the soft light of dawn to the vibrant colors of sunset, to create various moods.
Finding Inspiration
Inspiration fuels creativity. Discover new ideas and keep your artistic passion alive with these sources:
Nature Walks : Bring a sketchbook on hikes or walks to capture ideas; observe how light changes throughout the day.
Photography : Take reference photos on your travels; experiment with composition and perspective before you paint.
Art History: Study masterpieces from different eras; understand how techniques have evolved and apply them to your work.
Final Thoughts
Landscape painting is a continually evolving art that offers endless opportunities for growth and expression. With a blend of traditional techniques and modern interpretations, you can find your voice in this timeless genre. Hopefully this comprehensive guide helps you with the knowledge to create beautiful landscapes. Find more resources, original art, and canvas art prints on my blog , and begin your journey with landscape painting today.
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I’m Chuck Black, landscape and wildlife artist based in Southwest Montana.
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