This is the result of an exercise in reproducing a photo, found online. Everything above the waterline went mostly as planned. After that, things became more of a challenge. My first attempt with the water, I tried to replicate the water as it appeared in the photo. I didn't like the result, so I decided to try again with an approximate mirror image. I'm most proud of the sky and tree line. There are faint stars in the sky, but they appear better in person. I've included the evolution of my struggle with different versions of the water.
P.s. thanks aaronR for the inspiration to try something like this!
Wonderful Jeff 👍✌️
Hey! I think its great that you are working from a photo again.
Nice subtle stars as well. Light source to the right making the mountains on the right a bit foggier and brighter in value along with the lighter area in the trees in the foreground.
Be proud of this one Jeff.
You once asked if I could give tips on my style. Here is a tip on this painting for you:
Even though its likely that in the Photo there is hardly a 'water line' at the base of the very distant land mass on the left side, I would get some thinned down mountain color, add a little white to make it stand out.. and use a palette knife to add in just the tiniest water line on the left. I see one there already, but maybe make it stretch over to the center a bit more.
I cant really think of anything else to say. Its a great job man.
Thanks Cold, Brian and Aaron :D
Aaron, thanks for taking the time to look this over in detail and give advice! I think you're right about the water line. It would help this picture. One takeaway from this experience for me: following the photo too closely is a trap!
That is beautiful painting Jeffth!
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Looks great