plate no. 6153

Green and Black French Landscape

Istvan Farkas, 1930

oilExpressionismlandscapelandscapewatertreesfieldsskyfigures

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using color to create depth and atmosphere. It also encourages expressive brushwork and a focus on capturing the overall mood rather than precise detail.

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: horizon line, land masses, and major elements like the buildings and trees.
step 02
Block in the sky with a light, diluted green, blending it smoothly.
step 03
Establish the basic color areas for the land and water using broad brushstrokes.
step 04
Add darker values to define the shapes of the hills, trees, and buildings.
step 05
Introduce variations in green and blue to create depth and interest in the landscape.
step 06
Add the figures and other details with simple, gestural strokes.
step 07
Refine the composition by adjusting values and colors as needed.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · viridian green · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt umber · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of green by combining viridian green, white, and small amounts of blue or yellow ochre. Use burnt umber to darken the greens and create shadows.

techniques