plate no. 6576

Island (Ship’s Stern)

John Marin, 1934

oilExpressionismmarinaislandwaterskytreesrockslandscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and using expressive brushstrokes to convey texture and movement. It also encourages experimentation with color washes and layering.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the island and water, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Apply a light wash of diluted blue to the sky area, leaving some areas white for clouds.
step 03
Begin layering washes of color on the island, using a mix of browns, yellows, greens, and grays to define the rock formations and vegetation.
step 04
Use bolder brushstrokes to define the edges of the rocks and add texture to the island.
step 05
Paint the water with varying shades of blue, using horizontal strokes to suggest movement.
step 06
Add darker accents to the water to create depth and shadows.
step 07
Refine the details of the trees and other vegetation on the island.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · raw umber · yellow ochre

secondary · sap green · burnt sienna

Mix ultramarine blue with white for the sky and water. Combine raw umber and yellow ochre for the rocks. Use sap green and yellow ochre for the trees.

techniques