plate no. 2949

Follow the Stream (left wing)

Jacek Malczewski, 1910

oil, canvasSymbolismlandscapelandscapetreesfigurepathskyfoliage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the horizon line, trees, and path.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and distant landscape.
step 03
Add the darker tones of the trees and foliage, paying attention to the overall value structure.
step 04
Begin to define the shapes of the trees and bushes, using a variety of brushstrokes.
step 05
Introduce the figure, focusing on capturing the pose and proportions.
step 06
Add details to the foliage, using small brushstrokes to create texture.
step 07
Refine the path and foreground, adding shadows and highlights.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · burnt sienna

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · cadmium red

Mix various shades of brown and green by combining raw umber, yellow ochre, and ultramarine blue. Add titanium white to lighten the colors and create highlights. Use cadmium red to create the orange foliage.

techniques