Shadows in watercolor aren't a single color, but rather a combination of colors influenced by surrounding light, reflected light, and the object casting the shadow.
While it's tempting to use black or gray, that can result in flat, lifeless shadows. Instead, artists often mix colors to create more realistic and dynamic shadows. Here's a breakdown:
- Influence of Surrounding Colors: The color of the sky, nearby objects, and even the ground will reflect into the shadow, affecting its overall hue. For example, a blue sky will often contribute a bluish tint to shadows.
- Reflected Light: Light bouncing off surrounding surfaces can also add color to the shadow. Consider the colors of nearby objects, as these can subtly influence the shadow's appearance.
- Object's Color: The color of the object casting the shadow can also play a role. A slight hint of the object's color within the shadow can create a more cohesive and natural look.
Mixing Shadow Colors:
A common approach is to use a triad of colors to create shadows:
- Blue: Cobalt Blue is a popular choice, but other blues can work too. This provides the cool undertone often found in shadows.
- Red/Rose: Quinacridone Rose or a similar red adds warmth and prevents the shadow from being too cold.
- Yellow: A yellow, such as Nickel Azo Yellow, Yellow Ochre, or Raw Sienna, can further modulate the warmth and add depth.
By adjusting the ratios of these three colors, you can create a wide range of shadow colors to match the specific lighting conditions and subject of your watercolor painting. Experimentation is key to finding the right mix for your artistic vision.
Shadows in watercolor are rarely a single, flat color. Consider the factors that influence their appearance and mix colors accordingly to create more realistic and engaging shadows.
