plate no. 6066

Fishing Harbour, Belgium, Recto; Sunset, Verso

Maggie Laubser, 1922

oilExpressionismcityscapebuildingswaterskycityscapereflectionsharbor

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using color temperature to create depth and atmosphere. Students will also learn to capture reflections in water with simplified brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, water line, and distant mountains.
step 02
Block in the sky with a base layer of blue, allowing for subtle variations in tone.
step 03
Establish the dark values of the distant mountains and the shadows on the buildings.
step 04
Paint the main colors of the buildings, focusing on warm and cool color contrasts.
step 05
Add the reflections in the water, using broken brushstrokes and slightly desaturated colors.
step 06
Refine the details of the buildings, such as windows and doors, with simple shapes.
step 07
Add highlights to the buildings and water to create a sense of light and form.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition, ensuring a balance of values and colors.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber

secondary · titanium white · viridian green · cadmium yellow

Mix various shades of blue and purple for the sky and water. Use yellow ochre and burnt umber to create warm browns for the buildings. Add white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques