plate no. 9383
A view of the Ocean
Gregoire Boonzaier, 1948
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering paint and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. It also provides practice in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and values.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, sea, and sky, focusing on composition.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, establishing the overall value structure.
- step 03
Begin layering thicker paint, focusing on capturing the texture of the buildings and foliage.
- step 04
Use short, broken brushstrokes to create the impression of detail and light.
- step 05
Mix and apply subtle color variations to add depth and interest.
- step 06
Refine the details of the figure and any other focal points.
- step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of form and light.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt umber
secondary · titanium white · cadmium red · sap green
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Use burnt umber and ultramarine blue to create a range of grays.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·layering
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the freshness of the brushstrokes.
- →Creating muddy colors by overmixing.
- →Failing to establish a clear value structure.
- →Ignoring the importance of edges and transitions.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grit canvas to enhance the texture of the painting. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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