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Part 03: Refining the Background and Tonal Relationships with Helen Van Wyk

Part 3 of 15 Title:
The Background and Tonal Relationships

Playlist:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNmFUNddYNcbfLPUr_MGmYVfCz-lTvRg0

Full Lesson:
https://www.youtube.com/live/TllTFUmJ1as

Length:
4 minutes 5 seconds

In this segment, Helen Van Wyk focuses on building the background and establishing tonal relationships in the early stages of her still life painting. Using black and white acrylics, she demonstrates how small, deliberate strokes—rarely exceeding an inch and a half—are more effective in creating atmosphere and air around the subject. She also explains her method of painting certain areas larger than their actual size to allow for refinement in later stages, a technique that facilitates smooth transitions between objects and shadows.

Helen emphasizes the importance of tone and value, illustrating how subtle shifts in the background color can enhance the overall composition. By adjusting the background tones to reflect the light source, she creates depth and realism, avoiding distractions that could disrupt the flow of the painting. As she begins to work on the jug and the bottle, she lays the groundwork for shadows and reflections that will bring the still life to life.

Follow along as Helen sets up the tonal framework that will guide the development of the painting in the next steps.