plate no. 5691

Genesis

Charles E. Burchfield, 1924

oilNew Realismreligious paintingcloudsfigurelandscapemountainswatersky

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and capturing dynamic cloud formations. It also encourages experimentation with expressive brushwork and limited color palettes.

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 figure, clouds, and landscape elements.
step 02
Establish the light source and block in the main areas of light and shadow with diluted washes.
step 03
Begin building up the cloud formations with darker tones, using loose, expressive brushstrokes.
step 04
Define the landscape elements, paying attention to the receding perspective and atmospheric haze.
step 05
Add details to the figure, focusing on its form and gesture within the dramatic setting.
step 06
Refine the highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Add final details, such as the smoke from the volcano and the texture of the water.
step 08
Evaluate the overall balance and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna

Achieve the cloudy grays by mixing raw umber and white, with small additions of blue or sienna to adjust the temperature. Use yellow ochre to create the glowing light and mix with umber for earth tones.

techniques

·wet-on-wet blending
·dry brush texture
·atmospheric perspective
·scumbling
·glazing

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the expressive quality of the brushstrokes.
→Failing to establish a strong light source and creating a flat, unconvincing atmosphere.
→Using too many colors and creating a muddy, incoherent palette.
→Ignoring the principles of atmospheric perspective and failing to create a sense of depth.

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

·watercolor paper 140lb
·watercolor paints
·round brushes (various sizes)
·flat brushes (various sizes)
·palette
·water container
·paper towels
·masking tape

optional

·palette knife
·gouache
·watercolor pencils

Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling and allow for multiple washes. Experiment with different brush sizes and shapes to achieve a variety of textures and effects.

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