plate no. 2551

Bajka zimowa

Ferdynand Ruszczyc, 1904

oilImpressionismlandscapewinterlandscapetreessnowpondforest

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, and in using brushstrokes to suggest form rather than define it precisely. It also provides practice in capturing the subtle nuances of light and shadow in a snowy landscape.

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 pond and the main tree shapes.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the pond with a dark mix of black and burnt umber.
step 03
Begin layering the snow-covered areas with varying shades of white mixed with small amounts of blue, purple, and grey.
step 04
Use short, broken brushstrokes to create the texture of the snow on the branches and ground.
step 05
Add the vertical lines of the willow branches, using a thin brush and light grey paint.
step 06
Refine the shapes of the trees and branches, paying attention to the way the snow clings to them.
step 07
Add subtle highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and form.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall balance of the painting, ensuring that the values and colors are harmonious.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ivory black · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt umber · purple · grey

Mix white with small amounts of blue and purple to create the cool tones of the snow. Use burnt umber and black for the dark areas of the pond. Add small amounts of burnt umber to white to create warmer snow tones.

techniques