plate no. 2486
In Prague
Dobri Dobrev, 1924
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and creating depth through subtle color and value shifts. They will also practice rendering architectural details with simplified brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and perspective lines of the buildings.
- step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of diluted burnt umber.
- step 03
Block in the sky with a mix of white, grey, and a touch of yellow ochre.
- step 04
Begin painting the buildings, starting with the largest shapes and darkest values.
- step 05
Gradually add details, such as windows, arches, and roof tiles, using smaller brushes.
- step 06
Mix and apply the roof colors, focusing on variations in hue and value.
- step 07
Refine the details and add highlights to create a sense of depth and realism.
- step 08
Add final touches, such as the street lamp and any other small details.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · titanium white · yellow ochre
secondary · raw sienna · cadmium red light · ivory black
Achieve the various earth tones by mixing burnt umber with white, yellow ochre, and small amounts of red or black. Use white and yellow ochre to create the sky, adding small amounts of umber or black to control the value.
techniques
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·value studies
- ·simplified brushstrokes
- ·color mixing
- ·glazing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall atmospheric effect.
- →Using colors that are too saturated or bright.
- →Neglecting the importance of value contrast in creating depth.
- →Not establishing a strong foundation with the initial sketch and value study.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#6 flat brush
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·medium gloss
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.
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