Tips & Techniques

Creating shadows, depth and perspective

Transcribed from the program.

What I was looking for in Norman Rockwell's studio, and really what I look for in any building that I am going to paint, is two sides; one side in shadows and one side in light. This is what gives an architectural painting a sense of depth and perspective.

In watercolor painting, the technique that helps to create a sense of depth and perspective is known as glazing.

Remember, before you apply the second color, the first color must be completely dry. Otherwise you'll have a real mess on your hands.

Watercolor is transparent. The darker color you are applying won't dry as dark as it looks when you initially apply it, so don't panic.

As the second color dries--in this case the blue paint--the red paint will start to come back through.

Remember, think light-dark-light-dark or, if you prefer, sunny-shadow-sunny-shadow. That's what helps make any architectural painting three-dimensional.

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