Salisbury Cathedral from Choristers Square, Salisbury UK

Choristers Square  Salisbury

Salisbury Cathedral from Choristers Square, Salisbury UK, watercolour 15" x 11"

Salisbury Cathedral from Choristers’ Square – Capturing Light and Shadow in Watercolour

I recently had the pleasure of painting Salisbury Cathedral as seen from Choristers’ Square, a classic and much-loved view in the heart of Salisbury. This spot is a favourite of mine, not just for the grandeur of the cathedral but for the way the winter sun casts those wonderful, long shadows across the open square. The interplay of light and shadow, the tracery of bare branches, and the subtle colours of the scene all make it a perfect subject for a watercolour.

In the reference photo, you can see how the low sun creates dramatic shadows from the tree in the foreground, stretching right across the square. The cathedral itself rises majestically behind, slightly softened by the backlighting, and there’s a lovely contrast between the cool blues and purples of the shadows and the warm tones of the buildings and sunlight.

When approaching this painting, I wanted to emphasise that contrast and the sense of atmosphere. I began with a light wash for the sky, using a mix of cobalt blue and a touch of alizarin crimson to give a hint of warmth. While the paper was still damp, I dropped in some stronger blue to suggest the coolness of a winter’s day.

For the cathedral and surrounding buildings, I used a combination of wet-in-wet and wet-on-dry techniques. The distant stonework is suggested with loose, soft-edged washes, allowing the structure to recede and not compete with the foreground. I kept the details minimal, focusing instead on the overall shapes and the play of light.

The tree was painted with a rigger brush, using a mix of burnt sienna and ultramarine for those fine, intricate branches. I let some of the background show through, keeping the branches light and airy to avoid overworking them.

The foreground shadows are the real stars of this composition. I mixed a strong, rich blue with a hint of violet and swept it confidently across the paper, letting the brushwork follow the natural lines of the shadows as seen in the photo. I also used some splattering and dry brush to add texture and interest to the pavement, suggesting the uneven surface and catching the eye.

Figures were added last, using dark, simple shapes to give a sense of scale and life to the scene. I kept them loose and suggestive, just enough to convey movement without drawing too much attention.

Overall, it’s the balance of warm and cool, light and dark, that brings this painting together. Salisbury Cathedral is always a joy to paint, and Choristers’ Square offers endless inspiration for anyone who loves to capture the beauty of English architecture and landscape in watercolour.

If you’d like to see more of my work or join me for a workshop, do visit my website at www.timwilmotartist.com.

 

 


Canal next to Via Scali delle Cantine, Livorno, Italy

Canal next to Via Scali delle Cantine  Livorno  Italy

Canal next to Via Scali delle Cantine, Livorno, Italy, watercolour 15" x 11"

 

The canal area of Livorno, especially near Piazza Garibaldi, is a fascinating subject for watercolour painting, full of history, character, and architectural variety. As I wandered through this part of the city, I found myself drawn to the interplay of old stone, bustling water, and the unique light that seems to dance off the canal’s surface.

Piazza Garibaldi itself is a large, rather empty square, flanked by statues and surrounded by buildings that reflect the city’s layered past. From here, heading down Via degli Avvalorati, you quickly reach the canal and the imposing Fortezza Nuova. This fortress, built by the Medici in the 16th century, was part of their grand plan to transform Livorno into a major Mediterranean port. Its pentagonal shape, surrounded by water, offers a striking subject, especially with the reflections of its red-brick walls and the greenery that now softens its military lines.

As you walk along the canal from this point, you pass a mix of old and new. Some buildings are stark and utilitarian, remnants of pre-WWII architecture, while others are ornate, with faded facades and shuttered windows that hint at the city’s more prosperous days. The area is sometimes described as rugged, but I find this only adds to its charm. There’s a sense of real life here-boats moored along the banks, fishermen chatting, laundry fluttering from balconies, and the hustle of daily commerce, especially near the Mercato Centrale. This grand market building, with its delivery platform at water level, is a reminder of how integral the canal has been to Livorno’s commercial life.

The canal itself, known as the Fosso Reale or Royal Canal, was originally part of the city’s defensive system. Over time, it became a vital artery for trade, with goods transported right up to the warehouses and palazzi that line its banks. Many of these buildings have cellars that open directly onto the water, a feature that makes for interesting compositions, especially when the light catches the arches and creates deep, mysterious shadows.

Continuing along the canal, you’ll find yourself in the Venezia Nuova district, sometimes called “Little Venice.” Here, the network of canals is at its most picturesque, with narrow waterways, arched bridges, and a jumble of architectural styles. Notable buildings include the Palazzo Huigens, Palazzo Scali Rosciano, and the Church of San Ferdinando, all of which offer elegant lines and decorative details that are a delight to capture in watercolour.

One of my favourite spots is the stretch near the Piazza della Repubblica. This vast square actually sits atop part of the canal, which continues to flow beneath its 240-metre length. The monumental scale of the piazza, with its statues and sweeping views, contrasts beautifully with the intimate, almost secretive feel of the canal below.

For anyone interested in painting or sketching this area, I recommend taking a canal boat tour. It gives you a unique perspective on the buildings, many of which are best seen from the water. The changing angles, reflections, and play of light are endlessly inspiring-perfect for capturing in loose washes and expressive brushwork.

The canal area of Livorno is not conventionally beautiful, but it is full of atmosphere and stories. The mix of architectural styles, the weathered facades, and the ever-present water create a setting that invites exploration and rewards the patient observer with scenes of quiet poetry and unexpected grandeur.

If you’d like to see how I interpret these scenes in watercolour, or if you’re interested in learning more about painting urban waterfronts, do visit my website at www.timwilmotartist.com.