plate no. 5469

Ballade Debussy

Li Chevalier, 2020

inkInk and wash paintingsymbolic paintinglandscapearchitecturehorizonabstractink wash

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand the use of value to create depth and the application of ink wash techniques to achieve texture and atmosphere. It also encourages exploration of abstract composition and mark-making.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the horizon line and the basic shapes of the architectural structure.
step 02
Apply a light wash of diluted ink to the entire sky area.
step 03
Build up darker values in the sky using multiple layers of ink wash, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
step 04
Create the architectural structure by painting vertical lines with varying widths and darkness, leaving some areas white for contrast.
step 05
Use a dry brush technique to create texture in the foreground, applying darker ink in some areas and lighter ink in others.
step 06
Add splatters and drips of ink to enhance the texture and create a sense of depth.
step 07
Refine the details of the architectural structure and the foreground texture.
step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.

color palette

primary · black ink · white (paper)

secondary · gray (diluted ink)

Vary the dilution of black ink with water to achieve different shades of gray. Use more water for lighter washes and less water for darker values.

techniques

·ink wash
·dry brush
·splattering
·layering

common pitfalls

→Applying too much ink at once, resulting in a muddy appearance.
→Not allowing each layer of ink wash to dry completely before applying the next.
→Overworking the texture in the foreground.
→Failing to create enough contrast between the light and dark areas.