The Golden Bell – Augusta National

The first day of spring for many people is not truly here until after The Master’s. I have been to The Master’s twice and each time was breathtaking for the human eye. To have been in such a place that has an enduring history of great golfers can’t be described in one word. Almost like a holiness. The Masters’ dramatic golf moments are played against a backdrop of manicured plants, blooming azaleas and soaring pines. Each hole gets its name from the tree or shrub associated with the tee, fairway or green (“Juniper,” “Yellow Jasmine,” “Holly”).

This painting was painted in three panels and is by far the biggest painting I have ever attempted to complete. The complete painting process took me a little over two weeks, working on it several hours a day. I have taken a lot of the painting techniques I have learned over the years and put them all in this one painting. Below I have basically outlined my process for this painting so that you can see each step. In order to get my goal end-product I had to focus on the layering of colors to capture the realism of how beautiful this place really is. I wanted to do the justice it very well deserves.

Step 1: Screwed three 15 x 30 in. canvas panels together to allow it to fit my easel. Began by blocking in the main subject with tonal value of burnt sienna.

My setup. Used a utility light over my right shoulder to eliminate shadows of overhead lights.

Step 2: After blocking in all the main elements, I add even more values and shadows so that when I being to add colors it will allow them to be more vibrant

Step 3: Focus on the furthest area and move forward, not adding any detail at this point. Figure out your light source and in which direction it will hit the trees. Start out with clouds, then move down and forward.

Step 3: Continue to add layers of color to the furthest area and then move the color forward. Start focusing on the trees and adding dimensional elements/contrast

Step 4: Continuing to move forward, focusing on tree highlights and azaleas, Dogwood trees, etc. This biggest lesson here is to not get too detailed

Step 5: Begin focusing on the background from the middle and move left. Making sure to maintain appropriate shadows and value

Step 6: Finalize the details of the bridge, reflections in the water, and shadows on the green. Impressionistically work in the detail on the bridge and water. Touch up and Sign.

If you have any questions on this painting or want to discuss a possible commission of your own please contact me through my site.

Cheers!

The Golden Bell – Hole # 12; 15 x 30 in., Acrylic on Canvas (3 panels)

This painting was a joy to create; however, it did challenge me in so many ways as an artist. I can say one thing for sure, my abilities as an artist have grown so much so in 1 years time. Who knows what next year may bring.

Hoping everyone had a very Merry Christmas and will have a very bright New Year!

Cheers to 2018!

~ Tim Ellmers