01Materials you will need

  • Canvas or painting surface
  • Paintbrushes in various sizes
  • Acrylic or oil paints
  • Palette for mixing colors
  • Palette knife
  • Water container
  • Paper towels or rags

02Observing rainy scenes

  • Go outside and find a location with a rainy atmosphere. Observe how the rain falls, the way it interacts with different surfaces, and the overall mood it creates.
  • Take reference photos or make quick sketches to capture the essential elements of the scene.
  • Pay attention to the lighting conditions, the reflections, and the way objects are affected by rain.
  • Study how raindrops create patterns on surfaces and how they distort and blur the surroundings.

03Creating a rainy background

  • Start by applying a thin wash of blue or gray paint to establish the rainy atmosphere.
  • Use a large brush to paint the background landscape, gradually building layers and adding more details.
  • Create the illusion of rain by adding vertical streaks or speckles using a palette knife or a thin brush.
  • Blend the colors to achieve a soft and blurred effect, mimicking the way rain can obscure distant objects.

04Adding rainy elements

  • Paint the raindrops using a thin brush or a toothbrush dipped in white or light gray paint. Use quick and flicking motions to create the impression of falling rain.
  • Add reflections of lights or objects on wet surfaces to enhance the realism and atmosphere of the scene.
  • Experiment with different brushstrokes and techniques to capture the textures of rain-soaked objects such as umbrellas, trees, or buildings.
  • Don't forget to include other elements like puddles, mist, or distant rain curtains to add depth and interest to your painting.

05Finishing touches

  • Step back and observe your painting. Make any adjustments or refinements to balance the composition and enhance the overall mood.
  • Add more details or highlights to emphasize certain areas or objects in the painting.
  • Sign your artwork and let it dry completely before framing or displaying.
  • Take a moment to appreciate and enjoy your finished rainy scene painting.

Conclusion

Painting a rainy scene requires a combination of observation, technique, and creativity. By carefully studying the elements that define a rainy atmosphere and incorporating the right brushstrokes and colors, you can create a captivating artwork that captures the beauty and mood of a rainy day. Remember to experiment and have fun with your painting process, and don't be afraid to let your own unique style shine through. Happy painting!

MethodsDetails
MaterialsCanvas, paintbrushes, paints, palette, water container, and more
Observing rainy scenesGo outside, take reference photos, study lighting and reflections
Creating a rainy backgroundApply wash, paint landscape, add rain illusion, and blend colors
Adding rainy elementsPaint raindrops, add reflections, capture textures, include other elements
Finishing touchesMake adjustments, add details or highlights, sign artwork, appreciate
rainy scene
painting
art
atmosphere