plate no. 4472
Gums in sunlight
Hans Heysen, 1923
some experience helpful
This painting is great for practicing layering watercolor washes to create depth and capturing the effects of light and shadow on tree trunks. It also provides an opportunity to develop skills in depicting atmospheric perspective.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main tree trunks and horizon line, focusing on proportions and placement.
- step 02
Apply a very diluted wash of light blue to the sky area, leaving some areas untouched for highlights.
- step 03
Begin layering washes of light browns and yellows on the tree trunks, building up the shadows gradually.
- step 04
Add darker washes of browns and greens to the foreground to create depth and texture.
- step 05
Paint the foliage with a mix of greens and browns, using a stippling technique to suggest leaves.
- step 06
Introduce subtle variations in color and value to the tree trunks to capture the effect of sunlight.
- step 07
Add details such as branches and shadows to enhance the realism of the scene.
- step 08
Evaluate and adjust values and colors to achieve a harmonious and balanced composition.
color palette
primary · raw sienna · ultramarine blue · burnt umber
secondary · yellow ochre · sap green · payne's gray
Mix raw sienna and ultramarine blue for the cool shadows on the trees. Use burnt umber and yellow ochre for the warm tones in the foreground. Add Payne's gray to deepen shadows.
techniques
- ·wet-on-wet blending
- ·dry brush texture
- ·layering washes
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·stippling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
- →Making the shadows too dark and overpowering.
- →Losing the sense of light and atmosphere.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paper 140lb
- ·watercolor paints
- ·round brushes (sizes 4, 8, 12)
- ·flat brush (1 inch)
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·paper towels
- ·sketching pencil
optional
- ·masking fluid
- ·palette knife
- ·kneaded eraser
Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling. Experiment with different brush sizes to achieve various effects.
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