plate no. 8358

Changing West

Thomas Hart Benton, 1931

canvas, temperaRegionalismgenre paintingindustryfiguresplanesoil derrickstownlandscape

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in complex composition, layering, and depicting figures in various perspectives. It also offers practice in creating a sense of depth and narrative through visual storytelling.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to map out the major compositional elements and their placement.
step 02
Establish the background sky and distant landscape with broad washes of color.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures, buildings, and industrial elements, focusing on accurate proportions.
step 04
Develop the local color of each object, paying attention to the interplay of light and shadow.
step 05
Refine the details of the figures, including facial features and clothing.
step 06
Add the smaller elements, such as the planes, machinery, and background figures.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance the overall realism and visual impact.