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home·artworks·Icelandic Village
Icelandic Village by Louisa Matthiasdottir

plate no. 8354

Icelandic Village

Louisa Matthiasdottir

oilExpressionismcityscapehousesvillagelandscapeskybuildingswater
suitable for beginners

This painting helps students practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited palette to create a cohesive color scheme. It also encourages understanding of light and shadow to define forms.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic shapes of the houses and landscape, focusing on proportions and placement.

  2. step 02

    Block in the large areas of color for the sky, water, and ground.

  3. step 03

    Paint the main colors of the houses, paying attention to the color variations in light and shadow.

  4. step 04

    Add the details of the windows, doors, and roof lines.

  5. step 05

    Define the shadows cast by the houses to create depth.

  6. step 06

    Refine the colors and edges of the shapes to create a sense of unity.

  7. step 07

    Add final details and highlights to enhance the overall effect.

  8. step 08

    Step back and make any necessary adjustments to the composition.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · blue · white

secondary · green · brown · black

Mix various shades of red and yellow for the houses. Use blue and white for the sky and water, adding touches of green and brown for the landscape. Mix black with other colors to create shadows.

techniques

  • ·flat color application
  • ·color mixing
  • ·simplification of forms
  • ·blocking in
  • ·shadow mapping

common pitfalls

  • →overcomplicating the shapes
  • →using too many colors
  • →not paying attention to the light and shadow
  • →uneven color application

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·acrylic or oil paints
  • ·#4 flat brush
  • ·#8 flat brush
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife
  • ·linseed oil or acrylic medium

optional

  • ·easel
  • ·painting apron
  • ·rags

Use good quality paints for best results. A medium can help with blending and drying time.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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