plate no. 6245

Biron Palace and barges

Anna Ostroumova-Lebedeva, 1916

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)cityscapecityscapebuildingsboatswaterskyreflections

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in creating atmospheric perspective and simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and values. It also provides practice in rendering reflections and using a limited color palette to create a mood.

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 buildings, boats, and horizon line.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber and yellow ochre, creating a light background and darker foreground.
step 03
Block in the dark shapes of the buildings and boats using a dark brown or black.
step 04
Add highlights to the buildings and boats with white, focusing on areas where light is reflecting.
step 05
Create the reflections in the water by mirroring the shapes above, using slightly blurred and elongated strokes.
step 06
Refine the details of the buildings and boats, adding subtle variations in tone and texture.
step 07
Add the masts and rigging of the boats using thin, dark lines.
step 08
Adjust the overall values and contrast to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · black · raw sienna

Mix burnt umber and yellow ochre to create the warm, muted tones of the sky and water. Add white to lighten these colors for highlights. Use black sparingly to create the darkest shadows.

techniques