PAUL’S TOP TIPS

• Draw a lot. Try working large, A3.

• Take photos but do not be a slave to them.

• Analyse the sequence of a breaking wave by observation.

• Have an idea about a potential image without being obvious.

• Try different scales – from small to as large as you can accommodate.

• Try monochromatic images to analyse the tonal composition

• If working with semi-opaque and precipitating pigments, avoid getting mucky or you will end up with concrete waves!

• Waves and water are transparent and reflective. Aim for this phenomenon.

• Remember to interrelate all the elements of the composition – sky, sea and shore (surfer?).

• Don’t do just one image and hope you’ve cracked it, or be disappointed. If you do many, maybe one will crack it.