plate no. 8467

Edwardian woman on the Beach

Thomas Pollock Anshutz, 1900

oilImpressionismgenre paintingfigurebeachoceanskywavesdriftwood

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in creating atmospheric perspective and capturing the subtle color variations in a coastal scene. Students can develop skills in watercolor washes and layering to achieve depth and texture.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main elements: the figure, horizon line, and driftwood.
step 02
Apply a light wash of diluted blue and gray for the sky, allowing it to blend softly.
step 03
Paint the ocean with horizontal washes of blues, greens, and grays, varying the intensity to suggest depth.
step 04
Create the beach with a mix of grays and browns, adding subtle variations for texture.
step 05
Paint the figure with dark tones, focusing on the overall shape rather than precise details.
step 06
Add the driftwood with browns and greens, using dry brush techniques for texture.
step 07
Refine the details, such as the waves and highlights on the figure.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · raw sienna

secondary · sap green · payne's gray

Mix blues and grays for the sky and ocean. Use burnt umber and raw sienna for the sand and driftwood. Add a touch of green to the ocean for variation.

techniques