plate no. 0301

Hunter in the snow

oilImpressionismgenre paintingsnowtreeshunterdogswinterpath

some experience helpful

This painting provides a good exercise in capturing the subtle color variations in snow and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. Students can practice layering techniques to build up texture and create a sense of realism.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the hunter, dogs, trees, and path.
step 02
Establish the sky with a light blue wash, blending it softly towards the horizon.
step 03
Block in the large shapes of the snow-covered ground, using a mix of white, blue, and brown.
step 04
Add the trees, paying attention to their shapes and the patterns of snow on their branches.
step 05
Paint the hunter and dogs, focusing on their forms and details.
step 06
Refine the details of the snow, adding shadows and highlights to create depth.
step 07
Add the smaller details like the fence and distant trees.
step 08
Adjust values and colors to create a sense of harmony and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ultramarine blue · burnt umber

secondary · yellow ochre · sap green · cadmium red

Mix white with small amounts of blue and umber to create the various shades of snow. Use yellow ochre and burnt umber for the trees and foliage. Add a touch of red to the brown for warmth.

techniques