plate no. 3732
Falling Flowers
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering washes to create depth and atmosphere, as well as using varied brushstrokes to suggest texture and form.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic composition, including the mountains, trees, figure, and bridge.
- step 02
Apply a diluted wash of light blue/gray to the background mountains to create atmospheric perspective.
- step 03
Using a slightly darker wash, define the shapes of the foreground rocks and landmasses.
- step 04
Add details to the trees using a fine brush and darker ink, varying the pressure to create different line weights.
- step 05
Paint the bridge with a thin brush and red ink.
- step 06
Add small details like the figure and foliage with careful brushstrokes.
- step 07
Let each layer dry before adding the next to prevent muddiness.
- step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed.
color palette
primary · black ink · light blue · gray
secondary · red · brown
Use water to dilute the black ink to create various shades of gray. Mix a small amount of red for the bridge details.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·varied line weight
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the sense of spontaneity.
- →Using too much ink and creating a muddy effect.
- →Not allowing layers to dry completely before adding the next.
- →Ignoring the importance of negative space.
materials
surface · Watercolor paper or rice paper
required
- ·Chinese ink
- ·Chinese painting brushes (fine and medium)
- ·Watercolor paper or rice paper
- ·Water container
- ·Palette or mixing dish
- ·Felt mat or newspaper
- ·Weights or clips to hold the paper
optional
- ·Color inks (red)
- ·Sealing paste
- ·Seal stone
Experiment with different types of paper to see how they affect the ink flow and absorption. Use good quality brushes for better control.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
