plate no. 0244
Independence Hall, Philadelphia
Currier and Ives, 1776
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in architectural rendering, perspective, and creating atmospheric effects. It also provides practice in depicting figures and animals in a historical context.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and perspective lines of Independence Hall and surrounding buildings.
- step 02
Establish the horizon line and vanishing points to ensure accurate perspective.
- step 03
Block in the main color areas for the buildings, sky, and ground, using diluted washes.
- step 04
Add details to the architecture, such as windows, doors, and decorative elements.
- step 05
Paint the figures and horses, paying attention to their proportions and poses.
- step 06
Create atmospheric perspective by lightening the colors of distant objects.
- step 07
Add shadows and highlights to create depth and dimension.
- step 08
Refine details and add final touches to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · burnt sienna · raw umber · ultramarine blue · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red light · viridian
Mix burnt sienna and raw umber for the building's brick color, adding white for highlights and ultramarine blue for shadows. Use yellow ochre and white for the sky, and viridian mixed with raw umber for the trees.
techniques
- ·linear perspective
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·glazing
- ·dry brushing
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect perspective leading to distorted buildings.
- →Overly saturated colors that detract from the historical feel.
- →Lack of detail in the architectural elements.
- →Inaccurate proportions of figures and horses.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints
- ·#2 round brush
- ·#6 flat brush
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·reference photos of Independence Hall
Use a smooth canvas for best results. Acrylics are recommended for their fast drying time and ease of use.
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