plate no. 0178

Kymata

oilRealismmarinaseawavesskyboatshorizon

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice capturing the movement and texture of water using visible brushstrokes and subtle color variations. Students will learn to simplify complex forms and create a sense of depth through value and color.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and the placement of the waves and boats.
step 02
Establish the sky with a thin wash of muted colors, blending from lighter near the horizon to darker towards the top.
step 03
Block in the dark areas of the sea using a mix of dark blues, greens, and browns.
step 04
Begin building up the wave forms, using thicker paint and visible brushstrokes to create texture.
step 05
Add highlights to the crests of the waves using lighter shades of green, blue, and white.
step 06
Paint the boats in the distance, keeping them simple and indistinct.
step 07
Refine the details of the waves, paying attention to the way light reflects off the water.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust values as needed to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Burnt umber · Titanium white

secondary · Yellow ochre · Cadmium red · Viridian green

Mix blues and browns to create the dark tones of the sea. Use white to lighten these colors and create highlights. Add small amounts of yellow ochre or red to warm up the colors.

techniques