plate no. 5149

Checkered House

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)cityscapehouselandscapefigureshorsestreesbarns

some experience helpful

This painting is great for practicing simplified forms and creating depth using atmospheric perspective. Students can also learn about pattern repetition and creating a sense of narrative within a landscape.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the house, barns, and landscape, focusing on proportions.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and indicate the placement of major elements like trees and figures.
step 03
Block in the large areas of color: sky, ground, and buildings.
step 04
Add the checkered pattern to the house, ensuring consistent size and spacing.
step 05
Paint the trees, using simple strokes to suggest branches and foliage.
step 06
Add details to the figures and horses, keeping them stylized and simplified.
step 07
Refine the colors and values, paying attention to atmospheric perspective (lighter and cooler colors in the distance).
step 08
Add final details like fences, windows, and small figures.

color palette

primary · red · white · blue-gray · brown

secondary · green · yellow · black

Mix muted greens by combining yellow, blue, and a touch of brown. Create the blue-gray for the roofs and sky by mixing white with a small amount of blue and gray.

techniques