plate no. 2185

Konjikido in Snow, Hiraizumi

Hasui Kawase, 1957

oilShin-hangacityscapesnowtreesbuildingstairsfigurelandscape

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in creating depth through atmospheric perspective and accurately rendering textures like snow and wood. Students will also learn to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the perspective of the stairs and the placement of the building and trees.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: sky, snow, trees, and building.
step 03
Establish the darkest values in the trees and building to create contrast.
step 04
Add the snow texture using short, broken brushstrokes and varying shades of white and gray.
step 05
Refine the details of the building, including the roof and windows.
step 06
Add the figure on the stairs, paying attention to its scale and placement.
step 07
Create the falling snow effect using small dots of white paint.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensional effect.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Titanium white · Burnt umber

secondary · Payne's gray · Yellow ochre

Mix varying shades of blue and white for the sky, adding a touch of gray for depth. Use white and umber for the snow, and mix umber and yellow ochre for the building.

techniques