plate no. 2878

Chilmark Landscape

Thomas Hart Benton, 1922

oilRegionalismlandscapelandscapebuildingshillswaterskyfigure

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive landscape. Students can also learn about creating depth through color and value changes.

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 hills, buildings, and water, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the sky with a light blue-gray mixture.
step 03
Establish the main areas of green on the hills, using a darker green for shadows and a lighter green for highlights.
step 04
Paint the water with a light gray-blue, adding subtle variations in tone.
step 05
Add the buildings, using a simplified representation of their forms and colors.
step 06
Paint the figure in the boat with simple shapes and dark tones.
step 07
Refine the details, such as the trees, bushes, and reflections in the water.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and form.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · sap green · cadmium yellow light

Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Create grays by mixing ultramarine blue, burnt umber, and white. Use white to lighten all colors.

techniques