plate no. 3174

Gatehouse, Tomb of Safdarjang, Dehli

Martin Yeoman, 2001

oil, paperContemporary Realismcityscapebuildingtreesfigurespathlandscape

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning how to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and how to mix muted, natural colors. Students will practice creating depth through atmospheric perspective and color temperature changes.

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: the building, the path, and the trees.
step 02
Block in the sky with a thin wash of light gray-blue.
step 03
Establish the main color of the path with a mix of ochre, white, and a touch of red.
step 04
Paint the building using various shades of brown and ochre, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 05
Add the trees and foliage using greens, browns, and grays, varying the values to create depth.
step 06
Indicate the figures with simple shapes and colors, focusing on their silhouettes.
step 07
Refine the details of the building and foliage, adding subtle color variations.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall impression.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red light · sap green

Mix muted greens by combining sap green with burnt umber and white. Achieve the path color by blending yellow ochre, white, and a touch of cadmium red light. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create various grays for the sky and distant elements.

techniques