Amanda Hoskin shows you how to paint stunning sunset skies with depth and texture

Step 1: Preparing Your Canvas
Start by wetting the paper to create a smooth base for your watercolour sky. Use a large brush to apply a light wash of blue and orange, blending them together to set the tone for your sunset sky. This initial step establishes the foundation for your watercolour sky.
Step 2: Creating the Base Sky
Using your hands, blend a light blue and orange to create a soft, blended evening sky. This technique mimics Amanda Hoskin?s method of using her hands to achieve a seamless gradient in the sunset sky.
Step 3: Adding Texture with a Palette Knife
Once the base layer is dry, use a palette knife to add details and texture to your sky in oil. This step will give your watercolour sky depth and dimension, enhancing the overall look of your sunset skies. Step 4: Refining with Smudging
After applying texture with the palette knife, smudge the texture gently with your hands. This technique helps to blend and soften the details, creating a more natural appearance in your sky and sunset.
Step 5: Painting the Sea Horizon
Use a brush to add the sea blue from the horizon, blending it into the evening sky. Smudge the transition with your hands to ensure a smooth gradient between the watercolour skies and the sea.
Step 6: Adding Darker Textures
Apply additional darker textures with the palette knife to introduce more depth to the sunset sky and sea area. This step enhances the contrast a...