plate no. 4055

Landscape with Figures and Goat

Maurice Prendergast, 1919

watercolor, paperNaïve Art (Primitivism)landscapefigureslandscapetreesbuildinggoatsky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering transparent washes and capturing the essence of a scene with simplified forms and expressive color choices. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing and loose brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, including the building, figures, trees, and horizon line.
step 02
Apply a light wash of diluted blue for the sky, allowing it to blend and fade naturally.
step 03
Begin layering washes of color for the trees and foliage, using greens, yellows, oranges, and browns. Allow colors to mix and blend on the paper.
step 04
Paint the building with a light wash of white, adding a touch of red for the roof. Use blues and grays for shadows.
step 05
Add washes of color to the figures, using a variety of hues for their clothing and skin tones.
step 06
Paint the ground with a mix of yellows, greens, and browns, creating a textured effect with short, broken brushstrokes.
step 07
Add details such as the goat and any other small elements.
step 08
Outline key shapes with a darker color to define the forms and add contrast.

color palette

primary · cerulean blue · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

secondary · alizarin crimson · sap green · ultramarine blue

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow, and create browns by mixing red, yellow, and blue. Use plenty of water to achieve transparent washes.

techniques

·wet-on-wet blending
·layering washes
·broken color
·color mixing
·expressive brushwork

common pitfalls

→overworking the painting
→using too much water
→muddying the colors
→losing the transparency of the washes

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

·watercolor paints
·watercolor brushes (round and flat)
·watercolor paper (140lb)
·palette
·water container
·pencil
·eraser
·masking tape

optional

·palette knife
·spray bottle
·ruler

Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling and allow for better blending. Experiment with different brush sizes to achieve a variety of effects.

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