Beauty in the detail

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

■ How to apply and lift off masking tape and fluid

■ Practise the wet-in-wet and splattering techniques for a sand-like background

Seashells are so varied in colour, shape and detail, they make an interesting subject to get our brushes into. We need to consider a variety of issues, including overall shape, curves, depressions, shadowed areas and highlights – and let’s not forget the fun we will have painting the sandy background.

Transfer the image

The first thing we need to do is draw the outline of the shell. You can do this freehand, using the grid system, or with graphite-backed paper, which is my choice for this tutorial. Graphite-backed paper is a great way to get an accurate outline onto the paper quickly so you can start the painting process with the minimum of fuss. Using the graphite transfer idea doesn’t replace the hand, eye