plate no. 7604
Evening in Parc Monceau
Mihaly Munkacsy, 1895
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand atmospheric perspective and how to depict light sources in a dark environment. It also provides practice in creating depth through layering and subtle value changes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the lampposts and trees.
- step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber.
- step 03
Block in the sky with a mix of crimson and white, creating a subtle gradient.
- step 04
Begin layering the trees, starting with the darkest values and gradually adding lighter tones.
- step 05
Paint the lampposts, paying attention to the light they cast on the surrounding areas.
- step 06
Add details to the foreground, such as the path and the fence.
- step 07
Refine the details of the trees and branches, using a dry brush technique to create texture.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and atmosphere.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · crimson · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue
Mix burnt umber and crimson for the dark tones of the trees and shadows. Use white to lighten these colors and create highlights. Add a touch of yellow ochre to the white for the lamplight.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using too much bright color, which can detract from the overall mood.
- →Not creating enough depth in the painting.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·crimson oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#8 flat brush
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a glazing medium to enhance the luminosity of the colors.
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