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home·artworks·Brighton Pier
Brighton Pier by Fred Yates

plate no. 2349

Brighton Pier

Fred Yates

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)marinabeachpierpeopleseaskyclouds
some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using expressive brushstrokes to convey texture and movement. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing to create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the pier, horizon line, beach, and figures.

  2. step 02

    Block in the large areas of color for the sky, sea, and beach using broad brushstrokes.

  3. step 03

    Add details to the pier structure, focusing on capturing its overall form rather than precise details.

  4. step 04

    Paint the figures on the beach using simple shapes and colors, varying their sizes and poses.

  5. step 05

    Create the impression of waves and reflections in the water with short, broken brushstrokes of various blues, greens, and whites.

  6. step 06

    Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.

  7. step 07

    Refine the colors and brushstrokes, blending where necessary to achieve a harmonious effect.

  8. step 08

    Add final details and adjust the overall composition as needed.

color palette

primary · cerulean blue · yellow ochre · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · viridian green · purple · orange

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow, purples by combining red and blue, and oranges by combining red and yellow. Use white to lighten colors and create tints.

techniques

  • ·broken color
  • ·impasto
  • ·scumbling
  • ·color mixing
  • ·simplification of form

common pitfalls

  • →overworking the details
  • →using too much detail
  • →muddying the colors
  • →creating flat or lifeless figures

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·acrylic or oil paints
  • ·round brushes
  • ·flat brushes
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife
  • ·linseed oil (if using oils)

optional

  • ·painting medium
  • ·easel
  • ·rags
  • ·turpentine or mineral spirits (for cleaning oil brushes)

Use a medium-sized canvas (e.g., 16x20 inches) for this project. Acrylics are a good option for beginners due to their fast drying time.

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