Add drama and interest to your work as you learn to paint special cloud effects in watercolour, with David Bellamy

David Bellamy

Dettifoss , watercolour on Waterford 140lb NOT paper, 12x18in. (30.5x46cm). A fine cloud of spray rises to obscure the mighty falls. I painted this as I saw the scene, feeling that the spray was an important part of the picture, as it added atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to extend or reposition spray or cloud so long as it doesn’t appear odd, as not only will it break up long lines – as in the background horizontals in this instance – but it can also reduce repetition of detail. In this work these effects were rendered mainly by the wet-in-wet method with a little softening off with a damp brush in places.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

■ Develop your compositional skills in watercolour

■ Practise wet-on-wet, wet-on dry and thirsty-brush techniques

Apparently few people actually go out with the sole purpose of painting or sketching wisps or streamers, a fact I find amazing as these are some of the most exciting and useful features in a landscape. These straggling, torn fragments of cloud might look unappealing in themselves, but used properly can be extremely effective in enhancing your landscapes, especially in mountain or hill country.

In some places they are prevalent, in others rarely seen, but when you witness the effect it is well worth making a quick study, preferably in watercolour or water-soluble pencils, to create the lovely soft edges.