plate no. 2476

Hampstead

oilImpressionismcityscapecityscapebuildingsstreetnightrainfigures

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective, capturing the effects of light and shadow in a nocturnal scene, and creating a sense of depth through subtle color variations and tonal values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of buildings, street, and figures.
step 02
Establish the overall tonal values by applying a thin wash of dark colors to the entire canvas.
step 03
Block in the sky with a mix of yellow, blue, and white, blending the colors to create a soft, atmospheric effect.
step 04
Paint the buildings using a range of dark browns, grays, and blues, paying attention to the subtle variations in color and tone.
step 05
Add the street and reflections using a mix of dark colors and highlights to create the illusion of wet pavement.
step 06
Paint the figures and other details, such as the streetlights and carriage, using small, precise brushstrokes.
step 07
Glaze the painting with thin layers of color to enhance the depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · payne's gray · cadmium yellow light

Achieve the atmospheric sky by blending yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, and white. Use burnt umber and payne's gray for the dark tones of the buildings and street. Mix small amounts of cadmium yellow light into the streetlights for a warm glow.

techniques