This is a follow up to the last post. This process came about because I used to always avoid using mask because it created such hard edges. But then I thought, that is silly its just a tool. Figure out how to use it effectively. What has hard edges? Start with that. Well snow against a dark cloudy or night sky does. And thus I launched on my snowy cloudy night sky series. Initially I believed this would be a very limited expressive technique.. oh but was I proven wrong! The number of different types of energies it can capture is stunning!. Over time I have pushed the layering often using 10 or so iterations. For by layering the mask and wash step means the later layers have harsh edges but the values are less extreme so the edges look less harsh.
To start play a composition with extreme light crafted. Use mask on these. Then do a wash. Once that wash is dry do the next darker value. Then a wash. and continue this. Here are pictures
I suggest for your first try to do a consistent back wash. Also consider tipping your painting surface to help the wash move around so it has movement and texture. The last pic is the 6th iteration.
Working on the painting upside down when applying washes helps to get the color moving in the direction you want.
This is a close up so you can see the varying layers of mask. The lightest is earliest application.
Here I start taking off the mask. Again I work upside down but will also turn it around.
All the mask is off. The next step will be to paint evergreen, define the ocean ( the white splotch at the bottom) define some of the lightest light making them pop by painting more distinct darks around them. This painting is called The Light Cometh so I really want the lights to have no overt competition.
Please if you try this send me your images!!!