plate no. 5979

Adriatic Sea

oilImpressionismmarinaseamountainsrocksskycityscape

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. Students will also learn to capture the essence of light and shadow on different surfaces.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, coastline, sea, and rocks.
step 02
Block in the sky with light blues and grays, blending softly.
step 03
Establish the dark tones of the sea using a mix of blues and browns.
step 04
Paint the mountains with layers of blue, purple, and gray, indicating form with subtle value changes.
step 05
Add the distant cityscape with simplified shapes and muted colors.
step 06
Develop the rocks in the foreground with a range of grays, whites, and touches of warm colors.
step 07
Add highlights to the waves and rocks to create a sense of light and movement.
step 08
Refine details and adjust values to achieve a harmonious composition.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red light · payne's gray

Mix blues and browns to create the dark sea. Use white to lighten blues and grays for the sky and rocks. Add small amounts of yellow ochre or red to warm up the grays.

techniques