plate no. 9680
Autumn the mountain
Shitao, 1699
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, trees, and buildings.
- step 02
Begin with diluted ink washes to establish the overall tonal values and atmospheric perspective.
- step 03
Use dry brush techniques with darker ink to define the textures of the rocks and tree bark.
- step 04
Add details to the trees and foliage using small, controlled brushstrokes.
- step 05
Paint the architectural elements with precise lines, paying attention to perspective.
- step 06
Layer washes to build up depth and create subtle variations in tone.
- step 07
Add final details, such as small branches and leaves, with a fine brush.
- step 08
Consider adding calligraphic elements to mimic the original.
color palette
primary · black ink · sepia
secondary · burnt sienna · gray
Achieve varying shades of gray by diluting black ink with water. Mix burnt sienna with ink for warmer tones in the foliage.
techniques
- ·dry brush
- ·ink wash
- ·layering
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·line drawing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the spontaneity of the brushstrokes.
- →Creating too much contrast too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a clear sense of depth and perspective.
- →Using too much water, which can cause the ink to bleed.
materials
surface · Rice paper
required
- ·Chinese calligraphy brush (various sizes)
- ·Chinese ink stick or bottled ink
- ·Ink stone or small dish for ink
- ·Rice paper or watercolor paper
- ·Water container
- ·Felt mat or newspaper to protect the work surface
- ·Weights or clips to hold the paper in place
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·seals
- ·calligraphy ink
Experiment with different types of rice paper to find one that suits your style. Use high-quality ink for best results.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
