
plate no. 5519
Prudence Heward, 1939
This painting helps students develop skills in layering colors and creating depth through color variation and brushstroke direction. It also encourages experimentation with expressive color choices to convey mood and atmosphere.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the main trees and foliage.
Block in the sky with a base layer of blue, varying the tones slightly.
Establish the dark areas of the trees and foliage with dark greens and browns.
Begin layering lighter greens and yellows onto the foliage, using visible brushstrokes to create texture.
Add details to the trees, focusing on the direction of the light and shadow.
Introduce secondary colors like purples and oranges to add depth and interest.
Refine the details and adjust the values to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
Add final highlights to emphasize the light and create focal points.
color palette
primary · phthalo blue · yellow ochre · sap green · burnt umber
secondary · dioxazine purple · cadmium orange · titanium white
Mix greens by combining blues and yellows. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix purples and browns for shadows.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-grain canvas to allow for texture. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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