Return to MEDIA Previous page of the Feature Article Step Five: The character of the buildings was starting to be defined. Alignment of bricks and window ledges was following the perspective lines initially mapped out. Using a limited colour palette to unify the painting, I chose muted pinks, earthy oranges and browns – colours that are so prevalent in the buildings of Venice. Shutters on some of the windows were later painted a deep blue-green to balance the darker water of the canal in shadow. Step Six:  The ‘painting with a needle’ stage. Some detail was done progressively, while many of the finer details were left until the end.  This was one of the most tedious stages, but enjoyable as long as the patience held out! I love seeing block of shapes and colour transformed into lifelike features. I enjoy realism and this requires close observation of shadows and reflections; and the addition of rust, dirt, peeling paint and imperfections.   MASTER HINTS AND TIPS - Start with a concept, not just a composition. Think through a painting. Originality of concept and design may attract people to your work.   - I enjoy painting while listening to music – combining the arts!   - With Genesis Heat Set Oils, I always have a small container of odourless solvent and some paper towel to freshen up my brushes between colours. Although this is not a thorough clean, it is enough to avoid ‘muddying’ the paint. Much time is saved by not having to clean the brushes and palette for each painting session.   - A daylight bulb is wonderful for making sure that colours are true-to-life and it provides a strong clear light. I like working with two lights coming from different directions, helping to avoid shadows made by hand and brush.   - I often carry a camera with an extra telephoto lens. You never know when you may stumble across something like  beautifully arranged dead leaves, a rust-stained log or stunning beam of light!   - Once you think you’ve finished your painting, spend time just looking at it. Walk past it; stand back, without brush in hand. This may give you an opportunity to see it more objectively and dispassionately and improve any little things  that you may not have noticed while you were in the painting process.   - Look for the beauty in the mundane; the extraordinary in the ordinary. As an artist, I’m learning to view and appreciate the world in quite a different way