
plate no. 1754
Utagawa Toyokuni II, 1834
Recreating this painting will develop skills in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes. Students will also learn about the principles of Japanese Ukiyo-e art.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountain, buildings, and landscape.
Block in the sky with a gradient from blue to orange.
Paint the mountain with a light beige or off-white, adding subtle shadows.
Add the dark green areas representing the trees and vegetation.
Paint the buildings with a reddish-brown color, adding details like roofs and windows.
Add the clouds using a light blue or white.
Refine the details, such as the lines on the mountain and the figures in the foreground.
Add any final touches and highlights.
color palette
primary · indigo · light blue · reddish-brown · off-white
secondary · orange · dark green · beige
Mix light blue with white for the sky and clouds. Create reddish-brown by mixing red, brown, and a touch of black. Achieve the mountain's color with white and a hint of brown or beige.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · watercolor paper 140lb or stretched canvas
required
optional
Using a limited palette will help to maintain the harmony of the painting. Consider using a reference photo to guide your color mixing and composition.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
in this vein

14. Temple Gardens in Nippori
Hiroshige

8. Suruga Chō
Hiroshige

Travels Looking at Mt. Fuji
Kitagawa Utamaro

The Letter
Utagawa Kunisada

Jeu Princier. Mongol
Paul Jacoulet

Looking as if she is enjoying herself - a teacher of the Keisei era
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Ariwara no Yukihira
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

The Ghost
Utagawa Kunisada