Why I Prefer Bad Weather for Painting Inspiration

I just returned from the beautiful Sunshine Coast at Mooloolaba, Queensland. We spent a few days there for my cousin’s wedding. It was also Elora’s (our baby girl’s) first holiday.

Here are a few reference photos from the trip. Feel free to paint from them. I also snuck in a few Elora photos. She just hit 10 weeks.

There are only a few photos as, ironically, the weather was too good. I struggle to find painting inspiration when the sun is high and the sky is clear. It makes everything look too pretty and perfect. The strong light also makes it hard to see the subtle color relationships and nuances.

I prefer bad weather for painting inspiration. When the clouds are out and the light is diffused. I find these conditions—whilst unpleasant—provide more opportunities to capture drama, emotion, or some other spark of inspiration.

Happy painting!

Dan Scott

drawpaintacademy.com