plate no. 8135

Cityscape

oilPost-Impressionismcityscapebuildingswaterfigurestreescityscapecanal

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice layering colors and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to simplify complex forms into basic shapes and use brushstrokes to suggest texture.

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 buildings, canal, and figures using light pencil lines.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, buildings, water, and foliage with thin washes.
step 03
Begin layering colors to define the forms and create variations in light and shadow.
step 04
Add details to the buildings, such as windows, doors, and rooflines.
step 05
Develop the water with short, broken brushstrokes to suggest movement and reflections.
step 06
Refine the figures with simple shapes and colors, focusing on their gestures.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Review and adjust the composition, colors, and values as needed.

color palette

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

secondary · cadmium red · sap green · raw sienna

Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Create muted tones by mixing complementary colors. Use white to lighten values and create atmospheric perspective.

techniques