For his sixth, and final, acrylic exercise in his series, Paul Talbot-Greaves bought together all of the key points from his previous articles with a challenge to paint from a photograph of Fingal's Cave.

From all of the reader versions Paul selected the one below by Christine Kyles saying: 'Well the final challenge brings a final thank you to everybody who has read and taken part in this series. So many people have come to me at demonstrations over the last few months to say they have been following the features in the magazine. What has really touched me is so many people have said how much they have learned from them and indeed how much they will miss the series. I find that so rewarding, but yes, unfortunately all good things must come to an end.'

Pauls appraisal

Some great things going on here Christine. I particularly like the movement in the sky and sea where you have used lighter colour over a dark ground. The rocks have some great contrast and the touch of colour lifts them. Your painting has a loose feel, which is really nice but do watch that horizon line. Water is levelling so the horizon ought to be straight not curved. I do like the variety of value and hit and miss edges though on the distant land. I think you could add a small improvement to the crashing water by introducing a little softening in places. Also, use some spatter to depict the water splashes which will give the painting some added finesse to contrast with your loose finish.

Paul

See all of the selected works and Paul's critiques in the summer issue of The Artist (out on June 17).

Look out for a new series from Paul in 2017!