plate no. 6679
Landscape with Cow
Maggie Laubser, 1924
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students practice layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as using visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy to the landscape. Students will also learn how to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and forms.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the landscape, including the hills, fields, and sky, paying attention to the overall composition.
- step 02
Block in the main colors of the sky, using a mix of purples, oranges, and yellows.
- step 03
Add the distant mountains with muted blues and purples.
- step 04
Paint the fields using various shades of green, brown, and orange, creating a sense of depth and texture.
- step 05
Add the cow in the foreground, using dark greens and browns.
- step 06
Define the path with browns and ochres.
- step 07
Add details to the trees and foliage, using short, expressive brushstrokes.
- step 08
Refine the colors and values throughout the painting, paying attention to the overall harmony and balance.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber · sap green
secondary · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson · titanium white
Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Create muted purples by mixing alizarin crimson and ultramarine blue. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·color layering
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the painting and losing the freshness of the brushstrokes.
- →Using too much detail and not simplifying the forms.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Not paying attention to the color harmony and balance.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·mineral spirits
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·rags
- ·varnish
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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