plate no. 7193

Bay of Islands

Franklin Carmichael, 1930

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)landscapelandscapewaterrockstreesskyclouds

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice layering colors to create depth and learn to simplify complex landscapes into basic shapes. It also provides practice in rendering textures with distinct brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the rocks, water, and sky, establishing the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the main color areas: sky, water, rocks, and distant land.
step 03
Add the darker values to define the shapes and create shadows.
step 04
Layer lighter colors on the rocks to create highlights and texture.
step 05
Paint the details of the trees in the foreground, using vertical strokes.
step 06
Add the details of the distant town and islands.
step 07
Refine the cloud shapes and add subtle color variations.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition.

color palette

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

secondary · sap green · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson

Mix various shades of blue and white for the sky and water. Use yellow ochre and burnt umber for the rocks, adding white for highlights. Mix greens from blue and yellow for the trees.

techniques