plate no. 6542

A waterfall in rocky landscape

oilBaroquelandscapewaterfallrockstreesskycloudslandscape

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in rendering dynamic water and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will learn to mix subtle color variations to depict light and shadow on natural forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the waterfall, rocks, and trees.
step 02
Establish the sky and cloud formations with broad washes of color.
step 03
Block in the dark values of the trees and rocks, paying attention to the overall tonal structure.
step 04
Begin layering in the mid-tones and highlights on the rocks and foliage.
step 05
Develop the waterfall, using broken brushstrokes to suggest the movement and texture of the water.
step 06
Add details to the trees and foliage, creating variation in color and texture.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · sap green · raw sienna · ivory black

Mix various shades of brown and green by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and ultramarine blue. Use white to lighten values and create atmospheric perspective.

techniques