plate no. 3376

Cathedral Church at Lincoln

watercolor, paperRomanticismcityscapecathedralbuildingscityscapefiguresskyarchitecture

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in architectural rendering and atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in creating depth through layering and subtle color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and perspective lines of the buildings and cathedral.
step 02
Establish the sky with a light wash of blue and gray, suggesting clouds.
step 03
Apply a thin wash of warm colors (yellow ochre, raw sienna) to the buildings, establishing the base tones.
step 04
Begin adding details to the cathedral and buildings, working from light to dark, using a fine brush.
step 05
Layer washes of color to create depth and shadow, paying attention to the light source.
step 06
Add details to the figures and horses in the foreground, using small brushstrokes.
step 07
Use dry brush techniques to create texture on the buildings and ground.
step 08
Refine the details and add final touches to the sky and foreground.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · raw sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt umber · ivory black · light red

Mix yellow ochre and raw sienna for the warm tones of the buildings. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create various shades of gray for the sky and shadows. Light red can be used sparingly to add warmth to certain areas.

techniques