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home·artworks·Kabe (Wall)
Kabe (Wall) by Kiyoshi Saito

plate no. 9794

Kabe (Wall)

Kiyoshi Saito

oilSōsaku hangalandscapetreeswallroofarchitecturebranchesshadows
suitable for beginners

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex shapes and using a limited palette to create depth and contrast. It also encourages careful observation of light and shadow patterns.

technical profile

palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes: the tree trunk, the roof tiles, and the branch structure.

  2. step 02

    Establish the darkest areas with a solid black layer, defining the background and shadows.

  3. step 03

    Apply a mid-tone gray to the roof tiles, alternating light and dark to create a sense of depth.

  4. step 04

    Mix a light beige or off-white for the tree trunk, ensuring even coverage.

  5. step 05

    Add subtle texture to the tree trunk and background using dry brushing or stippling techniques.

  6. step 06

    Carefully paint the branches in the lower right corner with black, paying attention to their overlapping forms.

  7. step 07

    Refine the edges of the shapes to create crisp lines and a clean composition.

  8. step 08

    Add any final details or adjustments to balance the composition.

color palette

primary · black · white · gray

secondary · beige

Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white in different ratios. Add a touch of yellow ochre to white for the beige tone of the tree.

techniques

  • ·flat washes
  • ·dry brushing
  • ·layering
  • ·negative space
  • ·value studies

common pitfalls

  • →uneven color application
  • →losing the crispness of the shapes
  • →overworking the details
  • →inaccurate proportions

materials

surface · heavy paper or canvas panel

required

  • ·acrylic paint (black, white)
  • ·canvas or heavy paper
  • ·flat brushes (various sizes)
  • ·palette
  • ·water
  • ·pencil

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·ruler
  • ·masking tape

Using a smooth surface will help achieve the flat, even tones characteristic of this style. Consider using acrylics for their quick drying time and opacity.

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related guides

oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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