2DArtist — April 2017

2DARTISTMAG.COM

2DARTIST MAGAZINE | Master the Art of Speed Painting: Speed paint a dramatic fantasy scene

the background makes it appear darker and
more mystical, leaving it up to the viewer’s
imagination to complete the story behind the
image. This means we can draw the viewer further
into the image and increase their interest.

You can always try flipping the image as an
option if the composition doesn’t feel right; it
is amazing what a difference this can make.

07

Focal point: Using the most basic
tenets of composition, the rule of
thirds, paint the dragon head on one of the
focal points; you need to add more detail to
areas where you want the viewer’s eye to rest.

Using both the Standard and Mixer brushes, add
details to the dragon head, such as scales, horns,
and the suggestion of eyes and a mouth. Even
though this is a focal point you don’t want it to
be too defined to maintain the painterly look.

08

Define the body: Now that we are sure
about the position and the intention
of the dragon, it is time to place him in the
environment. It is not always good to constantly
look at references, but instead be more
spontaneous and original. I decide to go with the
classic “ready to attack” pose of felines which
is something most people can easily recognize.
I also keep working on the rest of the body,
redefining some forms and paying close attention
to the strokes to achieve more bulky forms.

09

Flip the canvas: Flipping the canvas
is one of the best techniques for
avoiding mistakes in the composition and
balance of your paintings. When you are looking
at the same picture for long periods of time
your brain starts to get used to it and it will
fail to see any errors in the composition or
proportions. I highly recommend you set up a
shortcut for rotating your image; it will save time
and also improve the results of your work.

10

Color palette: Use a neutral and
desaturated color palette; you can
get the dragon’s colors from the environment
and with slight changes to the values and

“Flipping the canvas is one

of the best techniques for

avoiding mistakes in the

composition and balance of

your paintings”

LIGHTS

Neutral and desaturated colors give the DARKS

painting more serenity and harmony

The dragon is almost done

Placing the main subject close to one of the four focal points helps the viewer to quickly look at it

Choose an easy shortcut to remember so you can

quickly refresh your perspective of the painting

LIGHTS

DARKS