plate no. 7262

House at Lesvos

oilPost-Impressionismlandscapebuildingtreeslandscapeskygrassarchitecture

some experience helpful

This painting provides a good opportunity to practice layering colors and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. Students can also learn about simplifying complex shapes and creating depth through atmospheric perspective.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the building, trees, and landscape using a pencil or charcoal.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the main planes of the ground.
step 03
Block in the main colors of the sky, building, and landscape with thin washes.
step 04
Add darker values to define the shadows and create contrast.
step 05
Build up texture in the trees and grass using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 06
Refine the details of the building and add highlights to create form.
step 07
Add the fence and gravestones in the foreground.
step 08
Adjust the colors and values as needed to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · red · yellow ochre · raw umber

secondary · sky blue · green · white

Mix the building color by combining red with a touch of raw umber. Use yellow ochre and a little green for the grass. Mix sky blue with white for the sky.

techniques