plate no. 9465
Holy Mountain II
Horace Pippin, 1944
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as simplifying complex forms into more basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the major elements (trees, figures, animals).
- step 02
Block in the background with dark greens and blues, creating a sense of depth.
- step 03
Add the tree trunks and branches, varying the thickness and direction of the lines.
- step 04
Paint the figures and animals with simplified shapes and colors.
- step 05
Add details to the figures and animals, such as facial features and fur texture.
- step 06
Paint the small yellow flowers scattered throughout the scene.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create dimension and form.
- step 08
Refine the details and make any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · dark green · dark blue · brown · yellow
secondary · white · red · black
Mix various shades of green by combining blue and yellow with small amounts of brown or black. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·simplification of form
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →overcomplicating the details
- →using too many colors
- →not creating enough depth
- →making the figures too realistic
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil or acrylic medium
optional
- ·easel
- ·rags
- ·turpentine or paint thinner
Use a limited palette of colors to achieve a harmonious look. Consider using a textured canvas to enhance the primitive feel.
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