plate no. 5977

Brussels, the Louvain Canal

oilImpressionismcityscapecanalbuildingsboatstreeswatersky

some experience helpful

This painting provides a good opportunity to practice capturing reflections in water and creating atmospheric perspective. Students can also learn to simplify complex scenes by focusing on essential shapes and values.

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 horizon line and the placement of major elements like buildings, boats, and trees.
step 02
Block in the sky with a thin wash of light blue and gray, allowing for subtle variations in tone.
step 03
Establish the overall value structure of the buildings, using a mix of warm and cool grays.
step 04
Paint the water with horizontal strokes, capturing the reflections of the buildings and boats.
step 05
Add details to the boats, including masts, sails, and rigging.
step 06
Paint the trees with loose, expressive brushstrokes, varying the color and value to create depth.
step 07
Refine the details of the buildings, adding windows, doors, and other architectural features.
step 08
Add final touches, such as highlights and shadows, to enhance the overall sense of realism.

color palette

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

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green

Mix grays by combining ultramarine blue, burnt umber, and titanium white. Use yellow ochre and burnt umber to create warm tones for the buildings and boats. Add small amounts of cadmium red to warm up the grays and browns.

techniques