plate no. 1801
In Our Yard
Ivan Marchuk, 2004
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop their ability to render complex textures and intricate details using layering and broken color techniques. It also encourages careful observation of subtle color variations in a limited palette.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the building, fence, and trees, focusing on the overall composition.
- step 02
Establish the base color for the sky and the building behind the branches.
- step 03
Block in the dark values of the tree trunks and branches, creating the underlying structure.
- step 04
Begin layering lighter values on the branches to create depth and texture, using small, broken brushstrokes.
- step 05
Add details to the fence and other wooden structures, paying attention to the direction of the wood grain.
- step 06
Introduce subtle color variations in the ground and foliage, using a dry brush technique.
- step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensional effect.
- step 08
Add final details to the branches and foreground to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white
secondary · sap green · cadmium red light
Achieve the various browns and earth tones by mixing burnt umber and raw sienna with varying amounts of white. Use small amounts of green and red to create subtle color shifts in the foliage and building.
techniques
- ·dry brush
- ·layering
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall sense of depth.
- →Creating a flat, uniform texture instead of varying the brushstrokes.
- →Using too much paint and obscuring the underlying layers.
- →Ignoring the subtle color variations and creating a monochromatic effect.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·small round brushes
- ·small flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium
- ·odorless mineral spirits
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A small canvas size (e.g., 12x16 inches) is recommended for beginners.
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