
plate no. 0096
A.Y. Jackson, 1927
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, and in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages expressive brushwork to capture the mood of the scene.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic shapes of the houses, mountains, and sky, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
Establish the overall color scheme by blocking in the main areas with thin washes of color.
Begin layering colors to create depth and form in the mountains and sky, using darker tones for shadows and lighter tones for highlights.
Add details to the houses, such as windows, doors, and rooflines, using a smaller brush.
Paint the foreground vegetation, using a variety of greens, yellows, and browns to create texture and interest.
Add the figures in the foreground, paying attention to their proportions and placement.
Refine the details and adjust the values to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall composition.
color palette
primary · green · brown · grey · yellow
secondary · red · dark blue · ochre
Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and vary the shades by adding browns or blacks. Achieve the earthy tones by mixing browns with yellows and reds.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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