Real Club Valderrama has been on my bucket list of courses to play and visit for a WHILE, and so I’ll do the next best thing, paint another view of this amazing course. Last year I painted “Golden Hour at Real Club Valderrama” on a 24″ x 48″ canvas using a reference photo by Gary Lisbon.
It captured the Spanish heat with the warm color palette perfectly, while the landscape view allows the eyes to take in the background. When we revisited the idea of painting another painting, I couldn’t resist this view of the 4th hole, another unique view taken by Gary.
I’ve seen this iconic hole from the side, showing the waterfall cascading over the pebbles.
This view was a different approach. Almost abstract in my mind as it didn’t EXPLICITLY show the waterfall. But it did capture the sunrise in such a magical way. The shadows of the cork trees lining the fairway. Challenge accepted.
I started with a basic color study to get the composition and color palette nailed down.
I transferred the composition on to the big canvas and layed down the imprimatura layer, followed by the color block (see below).
I wanted the greens to be subtle so it didn’t distract from the light coming in from the sunrise, but also wanted to do them justice, so I layered and layered until they were soft yet interesting.
So happy with how this one turned out!
Golf art is ALWAYS a fun challenge. My goal is to bring the viewer back into their favorite course and remind them of their last trip while inspiring their next one. I hope this painting reminds the golfer of the incredible views at Real Club Valderrama.
This painting is currently available. If you’re interested, check out the official listing here or email Aimee at aimeesmithstudios@gmail.com. You can also find prints of the “Golden Hour at Real Club Valderrama” here.