plate no. 0752
Hiking in the area of the Temple of the Dragon
Shitao, 1707
some experience helpful
This painting provides practice in controlling ink wash and brushstrokes to create depth and texture. Students will learn to simplify complex scenes into essential forms using varying tones of a single color.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, rocks, and buildings.
- step 02
Dilute ink to create a light wash and apply it to the entire background.
- step 03
Using a medium-strength ink, define the contours of the mountains and rocks with confident brushstrokes.
- step 04
Add darker ink washes to create shadows and depth in the rocks and foliage.
- step 05
Paint the trees and bushes with varied brushstrokes to suggest texture.
- step 06
Add details to the buildings and bridge with a fine brush and dark ink.
- step 07
Paint the figure on the bridge with minimal strokes.
- step 08
Add final touches and details to enhance the overall composition.
color palette
primary · black ink · sepia
secondary · light brown (paper color)
Vary the dilution of black ink with water to achieve different shades of gray and brown. Use more water for lighter washes and less for darker, more intense areas.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·contour drawing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·calligraphic brushstrokes
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the spontaneity of the brushstrokes.
- →Using too much water and creating muddy washes.
- →Failing to create sufficient contrast between light and dark areas.
- →Not varying the brushstrokes enough to create texture and interest.
materials
surface · Watercolor paper or rice paper
required
- ·Chinese calligraphy brush (various sizes)
- ·Black ink
- ·Watercolor paper or rice paper
- ·Water container
- ·Ink stone or palette
- ·Felt mat or absorbent cloth
- ·Paper towels
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·sepia ink
Experiment with different types of brushes and paper to find what works best for you. Use good quality ink for best results.
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