plate no. 2602

Church View

Nikolay Bogdanov-Belsky, 1930

oil, canvasImpressionismcityscapechurcharchitecturebuildingslandscapeskytrees

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, and in capturing the effects of light on different surfaces. It also provides practice in depicting architectural forms with simplified shapes and brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and landscape, focusing on proportions and perspective.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes of paint, establishing the overall color scheme.
step 03
Begin layering colors to build up the forms, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Add details to the architecture, such as windows, doors, and decorative elements.
step 05
Develop the textures of the stone and foliage using broken brushstrokes.
step 06
Refine the colors and values, adjusting the contrasts to create a sense of depth.
step 07
Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall composition, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · viridian green · cadmium red · titanium white

Mix ochre and burnt sienna for the warm tones of the buildings and ground. Use ultramarine blue and viridian green for the foliage and sky. Add white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques