Why Does The Direction of Light Matter? Bill noticed that when he painted paintings with the light source coming from the front of the canvas, he had a harder time selling them. Why is that? Remember hearing Bill say "You've got to have the dark to show the light!" Well when the whole painting is lit up, there isn't contrast. Everything is the same! Now compare that with a … [Read more...]

Listen closely to what she says while she teaches you how to add trees. This video tip is a continuation of Diane's project "Willamette River." She not only shows us how to paint the background for trees and how to define fir trees but she has an important message for you. Key Points To Consider: Diane is painting on a wet background. Load the brush properly and … [Read more...]

Preparing a Black Canvas with Transparent Paint This video clip comes from a video that Bill recorded, NOT for PBS. Which means he has a little more time to explain what he is doing. This is the first part of a series of clips we will show. Here Bill is just laying the foundation for what is to come. We want you to learn the whole process so you too can paint with … [Read more...]

Preparing a Black Canvas with Transparent Paint This video clip comes from a video that Bill recorded, NOT for PBS. Which means he has a little more time to explain what he is doing. This is the first part of a series of clips we will show. Here Bill is just laying the foundation for what is to come. We want you to learn the whole process so you too can paint with … [Read more...]

Bill Creates a Crock on a Black Canvas We couldn't wait to show you what Bill did with that black canvas! Remember how he talked about how much brighter colors look with a black background? This video tip shows you just what he means. Key Points To Consider: Watch yesterday's video to see how he prepared the canvas. ​Remember, we no longer recommend you use … [Read more...]

Learn how to create a deep forest by using light and darks. We are happy to bring you the next part of Diane's painting called "Willamette River." In this video, she creates a deep forest in both the light areas and the dark. Key Points To Consider: Diane is painting on a wet background. The background paint is a little tacky but is very thin, which allows the … [Read more...]