plate no. 3541

Landscape II

Graham Sutherland, 1971

oilExpressionismlandscapelandscapewaterrocksskyreflections

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice simplified shapes and color blocking to create a landscape. It also encourages experimentation with expressive brushstrokes and color mixing to convey mood.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the rocks, water line, and horizon line using light pencil.
step 02
Block in the sky with a dark blue, varying the tone slightly.
step 03
Apply a base layer of turquoise for the water, leaving space for reflections.
step 04
Block in the main areas of the rocks with orange, green, and white.
step 05
Add darker greens and browns to the rocks for shadows and definition.
step 06
Create reflections in the water using the colors of the rocks and sky.
step 07
Add black lines to define shapes and add contrast.
step 08
Adjust colors and values as needed to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · turquoise · orange

secondary · green · white · black

Mix different shades of turquoise by adding white or blue to the base color. Create greens by mixing blue and yellow. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques