plate no. 2270
Dasein / Heidegger
Li Chevalier, 2017
some experience helpful
This painting helps students develop skills in value control using a limited palette and creating atmospheric perspective with ink wash techniques. It also encourages expressive mark-making and abstract composition.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Prepare a toned surface with a light gray wash.
- step 02
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition with a pencil.
- step 03
Apply a diluted black ink wash to the background, creating a gradient from dark to light.
- step 04
Add darker values to the foreground and areas of shadow, building depth.
- step 05
Use a dry brush technique to create texture in the trees and other elements.
- step 06
Lift ink with a clean, damp brush or paper towel to create highlights and soft edges.
- step 07
Add final details and refine the composition.
- step 08
Allow to dry completely.
color palette
primary · black · white · gray
secondary ·
Achieve various shades of gray by diluting black ink with water. Use more water for lighter tones and less for darker tones.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·lifting
- ·value control
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the painting and losing the spontaneity of the ink wash.
- →Creating muddy colors by not allowing layers to dry completely.
- →Failing to establish a strong value range.
- →Not varying brushstrokes to create texture.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·Ink (black)
- ·Watercolor paper or canvas
- ·Round brushes (various sizes)
- ·Flat brush
- ·Water container
- ·Palette or mixing tray
- ·Paper towels
- ·Pencil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·ruler
- ·masking fluid
Experiment with different types of ink and paper to achieve various effects. Consider using rice paper for a more traditional ink wash look.
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