plate no. 3427
Fringe of Bucharest
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the buildings and their placement on the canvas.
- step 02
Establish the darkest and lightest values to create a value structure.
- step 03
Begin applying the dominant colors (yellows, browns) with thick, visible brushstrokes, following the direction of the forms.
- step 04
Mix and apply secondary colors (greens, blues, reds) to add variation and interest to the color palette.
- step 05
Use a dry brush technique to create texture on the roofs and walls.
- step 06
Add small details like windows and figures with confident brushstrokes.
- step 07
Refine the overall composition by adjusting values and colors as needed.
- step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the impressionistic feel.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white
secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · sap green
Mix yellow ochre and white for the building walls, burnt umber and red for the roofs, and small amounts of blue and green to create shadows and variations in the sky and ground.
techniques
- ·impasto
- ·broken color
- ·dry brush
- ·scumbling
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the painting and losing the freshness of the brushstrokes.
- →Blending colors too much and creating a muddy effect.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Getting bogged down in details too early.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
optional
- ·painting medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·easel
- ·rags
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A textured canvas can enhance the impasto effect.
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