plate no. 5488
BUSCOT PARK, FARRINGDON, OXFORDSHIRE
Eric Ravilious, 1938
some experience helpful
This painting provides an opportunity to practice simplified forms and repetitive brushstrokes to create texture. Students can learn to create depth using subtle value changes and linear perspective.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the building, trees, and horizon line.
- step 02
Establish the main areas of color: sky, building, lawn, and trees.
- step 03
Begin filling in the sky with light blue and gray washes, suggesting cloud shapes.
- step 04
Paint the building using a warm yellow-brown, adding details like windows and roof.
- step 05
Create the lawn using horizontal brushstrokes of green, brown, and white, following the contours of the land.
- step 06
Add the trees using a variety of greens and grays, focusing on their overall shape and texture.
- step 07
Refine details like shadows and highlights to add depth and dimension.
- step 08
Add final touches, such as the red stripes on the lawn.
color palette
primary · light blue · yellow ochre · sap green
secondary · burnt umber · titanium white · gray
Mix greens by combining blue and yellow. Use white to lighten colors and create subtle value shifts. Create grays by mixing complementary colors.
techniques
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·simplified shapes
- ·linear perspective
- ·color layering
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the details of the building.
- →Making the lawn too uniform in color and texture.
- →Not establishing a clear light source.
- →Ignoring the subtle value changes that create depth.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil or acrylic medium
- ·mineral spirits or water
optional
- ·easel
- ·painting rags
- ·viewfinder
Use a canvas with a medium texture to enhance the brushstrokes. Acrylics are recommended for beginners due to their ease of use and cleanup.
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