plate no. 3395
Cass
Rita Angus, 1936
some experience helpful
This painting provides practice in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive landscape. Students will learn to create depth through layering and atmospheric perspective.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, building, and trees, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
- step 02
Block in the sky with light blue, adding subtle variations for clouds.
- step 03
Establish the base colors for the mountains, using different shades of brown and ochre.
- step 04
Paint the building with its base color, adding details like the door, windows, and signage.
- step 05
Add the trees, using a dark green for the foliage and brown for the trunks.
- step 06
Paint the foreground with a mix of browns and yellows to represent the grassy field.
- step 07
Add the figure and other details on the platform.
- step 08
Refine the details and add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
color palette
primary · ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue
secondary · cadmium red · sap green · titanium white
Mix ochre and burnt sienna for the mountains. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky. Mix sap green and burnt sienna for the trees.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·layering
- ·geometric simplification
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·dry brushing
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes of the mountains and trees.
- →Using too many colors and creating a muddy effect.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in value and color.
- →Not establishing a clear focal point.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·easel
- ·medium gloss
- ·retarder
Use a medium-textured canvas for best results. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils allow for more blending time.
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