Landscape near Coney Island

surface prep

The canvas should be primed to accept oil paint. While specific priming methods for this exact 1886 work are not detailed in the sources, traditional oil painting practice involves preparing a stable surface to prevent cracking. The artist likely used a standard oil ground or gesso preparation consistent with late 19th-century practices.

underdrawing

Traditional oil painting techniques often begin with the artist sketching the subject onto the canvas with charcoal or thinned paint (Source 1). Chase likely used this method to establish the composition of the landscape, including the arrangement of natural scenery and sky elements.

underpainting

The artist likely employed a 'lean' initial layer, using paint thinned with solvents like mineral spirits to create a fast-drying base. This adheres to the basic rule of 'fat over lean,' ensuring that subsequent layers with more oil content dry properly without cracking (Source 1).

Fat over lean

Each additional layer of paint should contain more oil than the layer below to allow proper drying and prevent cracking (Source 1).

Broken brushstrokes

Use quick, short, broken brushstrokes to accurately capture momentary effects of light and atmosphere, characteristic of Impressionism (Source 8).

Complementary color contrast

Place complementary colors next to each other to create strong contrast and visual tension, enhancing the vibrancy of the landscape (Source 4).