plate no. 0336
Landscape
Unichi Hiratsuka, 1934
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for learning about simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a striking image. Students can practice creating flat areas of color and working with negative space.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
1
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition: the road, cliff, sea, and sky.
- step 02
Outline the main elements with a dark color, focusing on the strong lines.
- step 03
Fill in the sky with a light, even wash of pale green.
- step 04
Paint the road with a light beige or cream color.
- step 05
Add the blue for the sea, keeping the lines horizontal and distinct.
- step 06
Paint the cliff face with white, then add blue and green accents for texture.
- step 07
Add the details of the vegetation and railing with black or dark brown.
- step 08
Review and refine the lines and shapes, ensuring clarity and balance.
color palette
primary · light beige · blue · pale green · black
secondary · dark green · white
Mix the pale green by adding a touch of green to white. The beige can be achieved by mixing yellow, brown, and white. The blue should be a strong, saturated color.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·line work
- ·negative space
- ·simplification
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the details.
- →Using too many colors.
- →Not establishing clear lines.
- →Uneven color application.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paper or canvas
- ·acrylic or watercolor paints
- ·flat brushes
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
- ·ruler
- ·palette
optional
- ·masking tape
- ·palette knife
- ·watercolor pencils
Using a heavier weight paper will prevent buckling if using watercolors. Acrylics can be used on canvas or paper.
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