plate no. 9360

Arashiyama

Asano Takeji, 1949

oilSōsaku hangalandscapetreeswaterboatslandscapemountainssky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand layering of colors to create depth and learn to simplify complex shapes into basic forms. It also provides practice in creating a limited palette and using it effectively.

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 trees, boats, and mountains.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and major shapes of the landscape.
step 03
Apply a base layer of light blue for the sky and water.
step 04
Add darker blue tones to define the mountains and the shadows in the water.
step 05
Paint the dark silhouettes of the trees and boats, paying attention to the details of their shapes.
step 06
Add the white blossoms on the tree using small, controlled brushstrokes.
step 07
Create reflections in the water using vertical strokes of light and dark blue.
step 08
Refine the details and add any final touches to enhance the overall composition.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Titanium white

secondary · Payne's gray · Ivory black

Mix Prussian blue with white to create various shades of blue for the sky, water, and mountains. Use Payne's gray or black to darken the blues for shadows and silhouettes.

techniques