artist studio blog

How-tos, demos, and practical painting advice for landscape painters.

How I create a sense of depth in a painting

How I create a sense of depth in a painting

How I create a sense of depth in a paintingLayne Johnson

If your landscapes feel flat, depth is often the missing piece. In this video, I’ll show you how I use atmospheric perspective and layering to create a stronger sense of space.

How to Paint Beautiful Clouds (Without Overcomplicating It)

How to Paint Beautiful Clouds (Without Overcomplicating It)

How to Paint Beautiful Clouds (Without Overcomplicating It)Layne Johnson

Clouds can be one of the most frustrating parts of a landscape, but they don't have to be. In this video, you’ll see how I create forms, light, and structure for more believable skies.

The First Thing I Do With Every Painting (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

The First Thing I Do With Every Painting (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

The First Thing I Do With Every Painting (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)Layne Johnson

When I start a painting, I always begin with an imprimatura–bistre underpainting. In this video, I’ll show you how I establish values early to create depth, atmosphere, and a more luminous result.

5 things I wish I'd known about oil painting

5 things I wish I'd known about oil painting

5 things I wish I'd known about oil paintingLayne Johnson

Tired of muddy layers and slow drying times? Learn 5 technical essentials—like the fat over lean rule—and discover a more relaxed, classical way to paint. Plus, sign up for my free "Realistic Landscapes" workshop to see the process in action.

Why Your Colors Look Right on the Palette But Wrong on the Canvas

Why Your Colors Look Right on the Palette But Wrong on the Canvas

Why Your Colors Look Right on the Palette But Wrong on the CanvasLayne Johnson

Have you ever mixed a color that looked just right on your palette… only to have it look completely wrong once it touched the canvas? If color mixing has ever felt frustrating, here's what you need to know.

Fat Over Lean — Oil Painting's #1 Rule

Fat Over Lean — Oil Painting's #1 Rule

Fat Over Lean — Oil Painting's #1 RuleLayne Johnson

The fat over lean rule sounds technical, but it’s actually simple. Here’s what it means, why it matters, and how to use it correctly in your oil paintings.