
plate no. 2484
Willard Metcalf, 1919
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as understanding atmospheric perspective to depict distance.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the river, hills, and buildings.
Block in the sky with light blue and white, using soft, blended brushstrokes.
Establish the basic colors of the river, using varying shades of blue and hints of green and purple.
Paint the distant hills with muted greens, browns, and purples, creating a sense of atmospheric perspective.
Add the trees and foliage, using short, broken brushstrokes to create texture and depth.
Paint the buildings with light yellows and whites, adding shadows to define their forms.
Refine the details of the riverbank and foreground, adding highlights and shadows to create depth.
Add final touches and details, such as reflections in the water and highlights on the trees.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · sap green · burnt umber · cadmium yellow
Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Create muted tones by adding small amounts of burnt umber to other colors.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a glazing medium to enhance the depth of colors.
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