plate no. 3471

Holiday

Jeffrey Smart, 1971

oilContemporary Realismcityscapebuildingsbalconiesarchitectureskycityscapefigure

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand perspective, geometric forms, and color relationships in architectural subjects. It also provides practice in creating depth and shadow using a limited palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and perspective lines of the buildings and balconies.
step 02
Block in the main colors of the sky, building facades, and balconies.
step 03
Establish the light source and begin adding shadows to define the forms.
step 04
Refine the shapes of the balconies and add details like the window openings.
step 05
Mix and apply the subtle color variations within each plane of the buildings.
step 06
Add the figure on the balcony, paying attention to proportion and placement.
step 07
Refine the details and edges, ensuring accurate perspective and form.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · orange · beige · gray

secondary · teal · brown

Mix various shades of orange by combining red, yellow, and white. Achieve the beige tones by mixing brown, yellow, and white. The gray sky is created by blending black and white with a touch of blue.

techniques