plate no. 2903

Davos in Snow

oilExpressionismlandscapemountainsvillagesnowtreesskybuildings

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students learn to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and explore expressive color palettes. It also provides practice in layering colors and creating depth with contrasting values.

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 mountains, village, and foreground, focusing on composition.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the sky, mountains, and foreground with diluted washes.
step 03
Begin layering colors within each area, using bolder brushstrokes to define forms.
step 04
Add details to the village buildings, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 05
Define the trees with vertical strokes, varying the color and thickness.
step 06
Refine the snow-covered areas with highlights and shadows, creating a sense of depth.
step 07
Add final touches and details to enhance the overall expressionistic feel.
step 08
Review and adjust colors and values to achieve the desired mood.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Cadmium yellow · Magenta · Titanium white

secondary · Viridian green · Burnt sienna

Mix various shades of purple by combining Prussian blue and Magenta. Achieve the pink hues by mixing Magenta with Titanium white. Create the greens by mixing Prussian blue and Cadmium yellow.

techniques