Learn to draw by Tissa Hewavitharana

Painting a landscape with trees

I have observed most of the faults that often occur when painting trees. This is basically not due to lack of ability or skill but observation.

If you have a quick glance at the tree and get down to paint it, the result will be a stereotyped cardboard cut out. Without light shade and branches your painting will lack originality. Here are a few basic facts about painting trees.

The structure of a tree tapers gradually upwards from its trunk to twigs and leaves.

When painting a landscape with trees the technique of using a dry brush is one of the most interesting item that can be performed with watercolour.

Naturally, it is not something to be used at all times, since some areas of a painting will require the techniques involving blending of different colours according to the light and shade of a tree.

It is difficult to use just the technique of painting a tree on a wet or dry background.

Both techniques are used to achieve the desired effects each capturing the function of different tones to get the natural effect.

Various effects can be achieved with a dry brush stroke on a dry background bringing out the grain of the paper. It can create an interplay with previous applied colours.

Study the landscape given here. It shows the contrasts of the countryside showing a beautiful landscape.

The tree top is finished with dark brush strokes. The branches are drawn with a lighter colour (green).

The brush must carry the right amount of paint to establish the desired texture.

To blend the colours the red is used for the poppies. Mixed green and ochore create are for the earth tones of wild vegetation.

The roadway is maintained as the brightest and most reflective area.

I have shown a completed landscape painting without going into details as a basic lesson. I've used 250 grams Kent paper with brushes Nos. 2, 6 and twelve (sable hair) and Hookers green used as the main colour.