plate no. 7640

Apple Tree (Study for Portrait of Ellen)

Prudence Heward, 1935

oilExpressionismsketch and studyapplestreeslandscapeskyfoliagefield

some experience helpful

This painting is great for practicing layering and creating depth using color and value. Students can learn to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and blocks of color.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the apple tree branch and the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, distant hills, field, and the main branch.
step 03
Add the apples, using a base color and then highlights and shadows to create form.
step 04
Develop the foliage around the apples, using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 05
Define the foreground grasses with vertical strokes, varying the color and value.
step 06
Refine the details in the distant hills and trees, adding subtle variations in color.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall depth and form.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to the composition, color, or value.

color palette

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

secondary · sap green · cadmium red · raw umber

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow. Achieve apple colors by blending red, yellow, and a touch of brown. Use white to lighten values and create highlights.

techniques

·blocking in
·broken color
·layering
·scumbling
·color mixing

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the freshness of the sketch.
→Using too much detail in the background, which can flatten the composition.
→Not varying the color and value enough, which can make the painting look monotonous.
→Failing to establish a clear focal point.