plate no. 3656

Geghama mountains

Martiros Sarian, 1926

oil, canvasSymbolismlandscapelandscapemountainstreesanimalsskyplains

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning how to simplify complex landscapes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a harmonious scene. Students will practice creating depth through color and size variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, plains, and trees, focusing on composition.
step 02
Block in the sky with a light grey-blue, blending it smoothly.
step 03
Apply the base color for the plains and mountains, a warm yellow-orange.
step 04
Add shadows to the mountains and plains using a mix of the base color and a touch of purple or brown.
step 05
Paint the trees using simple shapes and varying shades of green.
step 06
Add the path using a dark blue-grey, and the animals with black.
step 07
Refine the details of the trees and add highlights to the mountains and plains.
step 08
Add the small details like the distant trees and the clouds.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · titanium white · viridian green · cadmium red

Mix yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the base of the landscape. Add ultramarine blue to create shadows. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques