plate no. 1121
From Under Willows
William James Glackens, 1914
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in broken color techniques and capturing atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in depicting figures in a landscape setting using impressionistic brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, boats, and horizon line.
- step 02
Establish the sky and water with broad strokes of blended blues, pinks, and whites.
- step 03
Block in the larger shapes of the figures and boats with simplified color masses.
- step 04
Begin layering broken color strokes to define forms and create texture in the water and foliage.
- step 05
Add details to the figures, focusing on capturing their gestures and interactions.
- step 06
Refine the highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 07
Pay attention to the color temperature shifts to enhance the atmospheric perspective.
- step 08
Add final touches and adjust the overall color harmony.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red · yellow ochre
secondary · violet · sap green · burnt umber
Mix various shades of blue and green for the water, using white to lighten and create atmospheric haze. Use red and yellow ochre to create warm tones for the figures and sand. Mix violet from red and blue for shadows.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·impressionistic brushstrokes
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·color mixing
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the impressionistic feel.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
- →Ignoring the importance of value relationships.
- →Failing to capture the movement and energy of the scene.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (18x24 inches)
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a medium-tooth canvas to allow for better paint adhesion and texture. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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