Colin Bradley Art Cast
404 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago - ★★★★★ - 24 ratingsFather and Son team Colin & Steve Bradley offer Pastel & Watercolour Tips to artists via this weekly Podcast. Submit your questions and Check out Colin's Free Courses on his website: ColinBradleyArt.co.uk
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Episodes
Trying Something New
July 17, 2020 00:00 - 17 seconds - 56 MBIn this podcast we discuss a new venture Colin's exploring which we're really excited to talk about and hope you're as excited to see what it brings. Before this, we talk about what it was like doing the new range of greytone pictures and how far he's progressed since his first picture. Lastly, we discuss signing your pictures including what medium to use, where to sign and whether you should date your work.
Layering Colours
July 10, 2020 00:00 - 28 minutes - 39.4 MBIn this episode we talk about the theory of choosing colours. Is it a natural gift to see a photograph and know the colours that you need? How can you develop this skill and what goes into picking the right colours? Colin discusses this and more in this week's episode.
Contrasting Backgrounds
July 03, 2020 00:00 - 34 minutes - 46.7 MBIn this episode Colin offers advice for creating a contrast with the background and a subject and how to overcome any areas where the subject may appear to blend in with the background. We also talk about printing out a sand coloured outline drawing onto white paper and if this would have the same effect as sand coloured pastel paper. Lastly, we talk about creating outlines and the process in which Colin goes through to create a basic outline for students.
Early Morning or Late Night
June 26, 2020 00:00 - 31 minutes - 43.7 MBIn this episode Colin and Steve talk about doing your artwork in the evenings or early mornings and when is the most productive time for them. Colin discusses not tackling anything too tricky in the evening so you can leave your work at a good place. We also offer some tips and advice for our members including help with skies and choosing colours. Pictures referenced in the show: https://www.colinbradleyart.com/home/early-morning-or-late-night-podcast-250/
Pulling Focus
June 19, 2020 00:00 - 30 minutes - 41.5 MBThrough helping one of our students with her picture, Colin discusses finding contrast within a subject of the picture and also the components of the picture itself. How do you make the subjects 'pop'? How do you subdue the background and draw attention to the areas you want people to see? In this podcast Colin offers lots of great advice for students drawing from their own references. We also discuss how using a general white charcoal pencil and a double ended eraser can get you o...
Photographic Bias
June 12, 2020 00:00 - 27 minutes - 37.7 MBIn this podcast we answer some of your questions and offer tips and advice on some of our members work. We talk about the importance of sharp pencils with zipping in whiskers, choosing colours for a dog and how changing one small part of a painting can affect the whole bias of the picture. See the pictures we discuss on this week's show on our website: https://www.colinbradleyart.com/home/about-us/latest-news/
Controlling the Contrast
June 05, 2020 00:00 - 29 minutes - 40.5 MBIn this episode we talk in depth about contrast and why this is such a challenging skill to learn using pastel pencils. We offer tips for improving the contrast in your pictures and exercises you can practice. Colin also discusses the intricacies behind achieving a likeness with your portraits and offers an update on a picture he's working on at the moment.
Increasing Your Range Of Pencils
May 29, 2020 00:00 - 40 minutes - 56.2 MBIn this week's episode we answer more of your questions! Colin offers some advice for buying additional pencils to increase your range of colours. He discusses 4 pencils from Cretacolor, Caran d'Ache and STABILO which would be good first colours to purchase. We also talk about base colours and where to use the cool and warm greys in your picture. Lastly, we discuss trying to remove accidental fingerprints from your pictures - has this ever happened to you? Let us know!
When to Leave a Picture
May 22, 2020 00:00 - 25 minutes - 34.4 MBIn this podcast Colin talks about knowing when to stop working on a picture. This is something that he struggled with in the beginning. When do you stop working on a picture? How do you know when to finish? Colin talks about his experience. We also discuss mount sizes for A4 pictures and how much detail you should put into your outline drawings.
Pictures in Shadow
May 15, 2020 00:00 - 26 minutes - 37 MBIn this podcast Colin talks about the series of pictures he is doing where subjects are in shadow. He is magically using just 4 pastel pencils for these pictures and the results are outstanding. We also pass on a tip about using masking tape and suggest some common pastel stick colours which are good for those just getting started. See the pictures Colin's working on by visiting our instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Developing a Looser Style
May 08, 2020 00:00 - 37 minutes - 51.7 MBIn this episode Colin talks about becoming looser with your approach and how working on realistic subjects provides a great foundation for moving into impressionism and specifically a looser watercolour approach. We also talk a little more about watercolour and how to stop your paper from buckling when it dries.
Drawing Doris Day
May 01, 2020 00:00 - 28 minutes - 39.4 MBColin's next project after Errol Flynn was to draw the beautiful Doris Day. Ever since he was a child he has adored Doris Day and this one was a real indulgence and pleasure for him to do. In this episode listen to the behind the scenes on creating this stunning portrait and be sure to check out the stages of this picture being completed over on our Facebook and Instagram pages: http://www.facebook.com/colin1940 http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Drawing Errol Flynn
April 24, 2020 00:00 - 24 minutes - 33 MBIn this episode Colin talks about his latest picture of Errol Flynn. We posted updates on our Facebook and Instagram of each stage so that you could see how it was created and in this show Colin offers some insights into the challenges of bringing Errol to life on the page. To see the pictures visit our Facebook or Instagram: http://www.facebook.com/colin1940 http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Recreating "The Scream"
April 17, 2020 00:00 - 45 minutes - 62.5 MBIn this episode we talk about Colin's new demonstration piece - "The Scream" by Edvard Munch. You can get access to the demo FREE for a limited time only using the link below. ALL IN Members will also find the videos inside their membership area on the website. Colin also talks about the 2 new starter pack videos we've added - Broadstairs and the Daylight Beach Scene. You can find both subjects on our site and on Udemy as a bundle. Lastly, we discuss the new Errol Flynn portrait a...
Working with Tracedown
April 10, 2020 00:00 - 29 minutes - 40.5 MBIn this episode we discuss working with tracedown carbons, both the graphite and white versions. When using a carbon do you need to go back over the drawing with a pencil? Colin shares his experience that gives him the best results when both working on light and dark papers. We also talk about the 3 new starter pack courses we've released as well as what Colin's working on next. Keep an eye on our Instagram to see photos of behind the scenes: http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleya...
Changing Focus and Attention
April 03, 2020 00:00 - 30 minutes - 42 MBIn this podcast we talk about the new pictures Colin's been working on and specifically how he's composed the picture to draw the attention to the subject. He does this by changing the physical composition of the picture and also with the depth of field within the subject (blurring the background etc.). It's fascinating to hear how your attention can be directed when looking at a picture and Colin explains how he does this in this podcast. We hope you're all doing well and keeping...
The Business of Art Q&A
March 27, 2020 00:00 - 6 seconds - 58.3 MBIn this episode we conclude our 3-part Q&A series with Business questions relating to art. We discuss the following: - What is the split of time like between creating art and dealing with the business side of things? - How does being an artist work out financially? (I'm not after figures!) Are there ebbs and flows? Has it changed over the decades? Have you ever been concerned about how it might work out? What do you know now that you didn't when you first started? - With a number of...
Art is More Important than Ever
March 24, 2020 00:00 - 24 minutes - 33.7 MBCreating in times like these is more important than everCreating in times like these is more important than ever. We wanted to check in with everyone to see how you're all doing and hopefully inspire you to pick up a pencil or paint brush and create. Science has proven the incredible benefits to art and how it reduces the "fight or flight" stress hormone. This stress impacts our bodies in so many ways so putting your mind and body in the present moment can give you a chance to rest...
Technical Art Q&A
March 20, 2020 00:00 - 24 minutes - 33.3 MBIn this episode Colin answers some more technical questions to do with art. These questions include: - Will fixative always dull and darken the appearance of a finished pastel piece? Or does it mean I've used too much? Is there an alternative? - Would you ever use normal cartridge paper for pastels or is it best to use specific paper for pastels? - What is the best technique for adding really sharp/crisp, detailed white whiskers over the top of layered pastels on animal portraits? -...
Art Career Q&A
March 13, 2020 00:00 - 21 minutes - 29.4 MBIn this episode Colin answers some questions about his career as an artist and offers advice to those who want to have a career in art. The questions we discuss include: *What has surprised you most about your career as an artist? *What incorrect assumptions do people have about life as an artist? *What do you wish you had known before you got into being an artist? Is there anything you would do differently if you could rewind? *What should a new artist be aware of before starting o...
Sharpening Pastel Pencils
March 06, 2020 00:00 - 27 minutes - 38.2 MBIn this episode we chat a little more about Colin's time at Butlins including a funny story of Colin's early teaching days. We also talk extensively about sharpening pencils and how different brands react differently to using a blade. What tips does Colin have for sharpening softer pastel pencils? We talk about what sharpeners are good and how the binding method of the different makes affects the sharpening method. Here's the sharpeners mentioned on this show: Faber-Castell Trio Sh...
Summer at Butlins
February 28, 2020 00:00 - 23 minutes - 32.4 MBIn this episode we deviate from art for Colin to tell us a story about his Summer working at Butlins in the 1960s. Hear this hilarious spontaneous story from a very young Colin wanting to spend the summers at a holiday resort rather than his "proper job". Let us know if you have any crazy stories like this that we can share on the podcast!
Visiting Castle Combe
February 22, 2020 00:00 - 22 minutes - 30.6 MBIn this episode Colin talks about his new watercolour picture of Castle Combe and how in the 80s he visited to draw on location for filming a video. We dissect some of his watercolour techniques and achieving contrast with the background, middle-ground and foreground. Colin also shares a story from Steve's first time on stage and the role he played. Lastly, we talk about Colin's decision to paint pastel backgrounds as he progresses through the picture rather than saving them to the...
Teaching Workshops
February 14, 2020 00:00 - 31 minutes - 43.2 MBIn this episode we discuss Colin's first workshops in the late 80s/early 90s. What was it like going from group classes with their own pictures to getting them to follow him step by step? Hear the various challenges he faced early on as he was developing his teaching style. We also discuss the new Pomeranian picture we added this week! Follow the behind the scenes instagram account @artschoolsteve // https://www.instagram.com/artschoolsteve/
Drawing Racing Cars
February 07, 2020 00:00 - 26 minutes - 36.4 MBIn this week's episode we discuss the new picture of a Classic Racing Car. Colin describes the subtleties in shading that create the stunning 3d effect in areas such as the lights, the wheels, exhaust and more. This subject is quite different from our usual so we'd love to hear what you think. Do let us know via email or Facebook/Instagram.
Sucking Up
January 31, 2020 00:00 - 25 minutes - 35.1 MBIn this episode Colin talks about his first Manager's job at a Men's Outfitters. Colin shares his experience of trying to impress the Area Manager and how his ambition helped him progress quickly in the industry. We also discuss what Colin's working on now and how his ambitious nature continues through art and onto drawing more colourful and challenging pictures.
Winging It
January 24, 2020 00:00 - 36 minutes - 50 MBIn this episode we continue the discussion from last week's "Bradley Gallery" episode. Colin talks about his first experiences of teaching including how he developed his style and differed from other artists. We talk about the pressures of demonstrating and how his early Years as a Salesman proved invaluable later on.
The Bradley Gallery
January 17, 2020 00:00 - 57 minutes - 78.4 MBIn this week's episode Colin tells us the history of "The Bradley Gallery". Opened in 1982, The Bradley Gallery went through many iterations over the Years and in this very special episode Colin tells the story from beginning to end. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we had recording it. It truly was a trip down memory lane.
Challenging Yourself
January 10, 2020 00:00 - 25 minutes - 34.9 MBIn this week's episode Colin and Steve answer some of your emails. We talk about challenging yourself with impressionism and more complex pictures and just how helpful it can be if you do this. We also offer some advice on watercolour tree colours and mixing brands of pencils for AMAZING results!
Enhancing Watercolour
January 03, 2020 00:00 - 29 minutes - 40.7 MBIn this podcast we discuss how to add highlights and enhancements to watercolour pictures. We have talked about in previous podcasts how to use Pastel Pencils on top, but this is not always needed. In this episode Colin breaks down materials and what could be the challenges faced with enhancing watercolour. Thanks to Jim for the email which prompted this discussion!
A Post War Christmas
December 27, 2019 00:00 - 23 minutes - 32.5 MBIn this special Christmas Episode (recorded on Christmas Eve), Colin shares stories of his Christmases post war. He talks about saving up the ration coupons so they could have sweets and his Father going to the woods in search for a Christmas Tree. We then talk about the new Demonstration that we've added to the website - The Fighting Temeraire by Turner. Hear Colin's stories and discover the new picture today on our website: http://www.colinbradleyart.com
The Instinctive Artist
December 21, 2019 00:00 - 25 minutes - 34.9 MBIn this week's episode Colin offers a fascinating insight into the instinctive nature being an artist. He refers to his own experiences when working and also watching the footage back wondering how he did what he did. We also talk about the new Spaniel picture added which is a masterclass in contrast and subtle shading. Grab the course now on Udemy or by joining our website. Colin teases us with an insight to what he'll be working on in 2020 as well! From all of us here we hope you...
Drawing Fabric
December 13, 2019 00:00 - 22 minutes - 31.6 MBIn this episode we're still in our December bubble recording via phone in Broadstairs! Colin offers some advice on how to draw fabric and how to get the subtlety in the folds. It takes experience and practice but the pay off is worth it and the skills actually do transfer over to other subjects! We also talk about the projects Colin's currently working from which is a huge contrast from Impressionistic Pastel Stick Pictures!
Post Pastel Sticks
December 06, 2019 00:00 - 16 minutes - 22.3 MBIn the thick of Panto season and without any official recording equipment we record a mini podcast via Steve's phone! Colin shares how his new pictures are going and what's next after he completes the current line of projects. Steve offers an update on how his Pantomime season is going!
Finding Your Own Style
November 29, 2019 00:00 - 26 minutes - 37 MBIn this episode we talk about how to find your own style and whether artistic impression is something that you consciously do. How much is your own style intuitive and how do you end up breaking free of copying and branching out into your own pictures? Thanks to Laura who sent us this email and providing us with some great discussion!
Experimental Techniques
November 22, 2019 00:00 - 28 minutes - 38.8 MBIn this episode we continue to talk about working with Stick Pastels. Colin tells us how he learnt from a potential mishap during filming and how this shaped the way he taught the following projects. We also talk about creating your own graphite carbon - an alternative way to transfer a line drawing to the pastel paper and why this works well. We also talk about how much fun (and messy) these new projects can be.
Pastel Stick Challenges
November 15, 2019 00:00 - 26 minutes - 35.9 MBWhat makes using stick pastels challenging? In this episode we talk about the first tutorial that we've filmed using only Pastel Sticks and the challenges you might face when doing it. This leads us onto why impressionism is tricky but also why it's so gratifying to get right. To get access to our stick pastel projects, sign up to our membership here: http://www.colinbradleyart.com/home/sign-up
Impressionism Training
November 08, 2019 00:00 - 36 minutes - 49.9 MBIn this episode we talk a little bit more about using Pastel Sticks and the impressionistic approach that it teaches you. Colin talks about moving from a fine detailed watercolour technique to a slightly looser pastel pencil technique and finally now being even more "restrictive" with detail using pastel sticks.
Breaking Down Watercolour
November 01, 2019 00:00 - 35 minutes - 49 MBIn this episode we discuss Colin’s self taught watercolour techniques - breaking down how he does trees and bridges. We discuss the wet on wet technique and how Colin uses this to get such a variety of colour. Enrol in Colin's Aylesford Course: http://bit.ly/2N4qkc5 Get Membership to ALL Colin's Courses: http://bit.ly/cba-access Follow us on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Overcoming Fears and Doubts
October 25, 2019 00:00 - 33 minutes - 45.4 MBThis week we talk about comparing yourself to other artists and overcoming fears and doubts about your ability. We also discuss going from an amateur artist to a professional artist and reaching that level. Lastly Colin offers advice regarding your pastelmat pictures smudging after you have completed them. Learn with us: http://www.colinbradleyart.com Follow us on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Future Pastel Stick Projects
October 18, 2019 00:00 - 29 minutes - 40.1 MBIn this podcast we share our ideas on future projects involving pastel sticks and impressionism. Colin talks about what subjects he’s planning and what brand he’s choosing to use and why. What are your thoughts on doing impressionistic pictures with pastel sticks? Let us know! Learn with us: http://www.colinbradleyart.com Follow us on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Too Photographic
October 11, 2019 00:00 - 27 minutes - 38.1 MBIn this episode we talk about the 2 Dog subjects Colin’s done on PastelMat and his approach to these two stunning pictures. We talk about Colin’s approach and how he deliberately chooses not to make a picture too Photographic. We also talk about snow scenes in watercolour and pastel that Colin did in the mid 80s and redoing them now. Follow us on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart Learn with us: http://www.colinbradleyart.com Images referenced in this episode: htt...
Having No Ego
October 04, 2019 00:00 - 29 minutes - 40 MBWe continue the conversation from the last podcast about some of Colin’s old watercolour works and then talk about remaining grounded. Colin talks about what (and who) keeps him grounded. Follow us on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Past Experience
September 27, 2019 00:00 - 25 minutes - 35.1 MBWe’re back! In this episode we talk about Colin’s past experiences with watercolour and how much the experience with pastel pencil work has changed his pictures. Colin talks about some of the old pictures he completed and how his approach is totally different now. Interested in Colin’s vintage prints? Let us know! Follow us on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/colinbradleyart
Overcoming Fear of Failure
July 17, 2019 00:00 - 16 minutes - 23.3 MBIn this episode we talk about comparing yourself to other artists and overcoming fear of failure (this discussion starts at around 9 minutes 40 seconds in). Around that we also talk about how Colin's watercolour work has changed through the experience of working further with Pastel Pencils. It has been a number of years since Colin last painted with Watercolour so how has his approach shifted? We talk about this and more in this podcast. Interested in accessing Colin's art courses?...
Renoir's "The Apple Seller"
July 14, 2019 00:00 - 21 minutes - 29.4 MBColin talks about his reproduction of Renoir's "The Apple Seller" in Pastel. We discuss: - How you approach a picture that is more impressionistic compared to realism - what aspect of realistic pictures requires an impressionistic touch? - How do you mimic an impressionistic artist’s brush strokes with pastels? - What are good skills to have before you attempt impressionistic pictures? Get access to Colin's demonstrations and courses by clicking here: http://bit.ly/cba-access
Becoming an Art Tutor
June 10, 2019 00:00 - 37 minutes - 51.8 MBWe discuss a bit about the early stages of Colin's career and which areas he found most enjoyable. He wasn't expecting to enjoy teaching as much as he did so find out what it was like to discover his passion for sharing his knowledge. How did the "job" affect his passion for art? Colin talks about the tough parts to the job and whether that changed his love for drawing and painting. We also touch upon getting back into Watercolour after years off working with Pastel Pencils. We h...
Tips for Beginners
May 13, 2019 19:01 - 32 minutes - 45 MBIn this episode Colin offers tips for those starting out with Pastel Pencils including the following: - Benefits to taping your work down to a piece of hardboard just bigger than the picture - Working from top to bottom and right to left (or left to right if you're left handed) - Start out with copying Colin’s pictures first, picking up the techniques then working on your own pictures. you’ll pick up the application of colour, importance of underpainting and base colours as well as ...
Girl with a Pearl Earring in Pastel
April 03, 2019 00:00 - 19 minutes - 27.5 MBIn this episode we discuss the challenges behind drawing Johannes Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" using Pastel Pencils. Learn about Colin's process in approaching a picture like this and which areas he found challenging and interesting to do. You can watch the full 3 hour demonstration on our website inside our membership. To learn more click here: http://www.colinbradleyart.com/home/sign-up/
Turn your pictures upside down
March 22, 2019 00:00 - 30 minutes - 41.4 MBIn this podcast we answer your questions. Discussion points include: > how turning your pictures upside down allows you to improve your work. > how can learning to draw flowers help with drawing portraits? (Skip to around 10 minutes to hear Colin talk about this) > what colours of pastelmat work for different subjects > what makes a picture difficult to do? > how can you mix watercolour without getting muddy colours? Link to buy Air Blaster mentioned on the podcast: Amazon UK: htt...