Painting Demonstration 1
I begin with roughly blocking in where I want the big shapes. I'm not adding any details, just roughing in areas. I make sure I leave the umbrellas white.
Painting Demonstration 2
I begin with roughly blocking in where I want the big shapes. I'm not adding any details, just roughing in areas. I make sure I leave the umbrellas white.
Painting Demonstration 3
Time for some rich darks. The darks really make the colors bright and hot.
Artist Tips
Don't add too much detail at the beginning.
Painting Demonstration 4
A few more darks in the green vegetation in the pots. Remember to vary the greens. Some will have more yellows, some more blues and some a hint of red. That will make this row much more interesting.
Painting Demonstration 5
I'm starting to put in a few details now. A few dashes for railings painted with a rigger. I delineate the top edge of the yellow curtains. And finally I get to paint the warm terracotta of the row of pots.
Painting Demonstration 6
A bit more detail here. I scribble the "menu" and add a few trumpet vine flowers.
I'm adding detail to the people very gradually. I don't want specific people, just a feel of a couple going for a lovely evening out.
I finally get to add the umbrella shadows and highlights here. They really are the star of the painting, so I take my time. Golden sun shining through and leaf shadows dappling the canvas. Really interesting shadows here.
Painting Demonstration 7
I add my first touches of white gouache at the very end. All I need is a little bit for the curtain line and the trumpet flowers.
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Italian Cafe Painting Tutorial Final Watercolor Painting!
So I had signed the painting and everything, but I realized it wasn't done yet!
I added some more shadows on the street to tone down the white and flatten it a bit. I also added some texture on the upper left hand building. It was just too smooth and dull there.
I'm really happy with how it turned out after those little changes.
I hope this inspires you to paint a street scene. They are always interesting to paint!
