plate no. 8039
Cityscape
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, hills, ground.
- step 03
Add the buildings, paying attention to their geometric shapes.
- step 04
Paint the tree trunks as straight lines, varying their heights.
- step 05
Add the palm fronds at the top of the trees.
- step 06
Define the road and the bridge structure.
- step 07
Add details like windows and shadows.
- step 08
Refine edges and add final touches.
color palette
primary · sky blue · green · red · white
secondary · brown · yellow · gray · dark blue
Mix greens by combining blues and yellows. Use white to lighten colors and create subtle gradients in the hills and sky.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·smooth blending
- ·geometric shapes
- ·linear perspective
- ·simplified forms
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes.
- →Using too many colors.
- →Not planning the composition beforehand.
- →Uneven color application.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·water
- ·paper towels
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·ruler
- ·masking tape
Acrylic paints are recommended for their quick drying time and ease of use. Use good quality brushes for smooth application.
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