As I near completion of my latest watercolor painting, I wanted to give a sneak peek into the process and techniques used to capture the tranquility of dusk in this scene. The subject is a great egret, standing amidst rolling waves as the sun sets behind him. I utilized both transparent and opaque watercolor pigments to achieve the soft, subtle lighting and colors.

The egret is the focal point, lifting his wings slightly to maintain balance on the submerged boulders below as the tide comes in around his feet. Short, delicate brushstrokes in layers convey the texture of the waves as they crest and roll forward. I used a range of subtle cool blues, greens, lavenders, and grays for the water and bird to evoke the mood of evening twilight. Gentle backlighting illuminates the egret’s white feathers.

Developing the atmospheric perspective and conveying distance across the scene was an interesting challenge. I utilized paler, duller shades of color for the distant waves and horizon, adding more intensity and sharper detail as elements come closer in the foreground. The limited color palette and smooth blending of the paint creates a hazy, ethereal quality befitting the time of day.

I’m quite pleased with how this painting is coming along. The egret has a subtle grace and poise as he stands amidst the swirling waves. I feel the piece truly captures the essence I was striving for of a peaceful seaside evening. I’ll be sure to share the final piece soon once the finishing details are complete!