plate no. 8474

Le Jardinier

Gustave de Smet, 1929

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfigurehousetreesdogwatering cangarden

suitable for beginners

This painting is great for practicing simplified forms and bold brushstrokes. Students can learn to create a sense of depth using color and value rather than detailed rendering.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, ground, house, trees, and figure.
step 03
Refine the shapes of the figure, house, and trees, paying attention to their simplified forms.
step 04
Add details like the windows, the watering can, and the dog.
step 05
Use visible brushstrokes to add texture and interest to the painting.
step 06
Adjust the colors and values to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to define the forms.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Cadmium Red · Yellow Ochre · Burnt Umber

secondary · Titanium White · Sap Green

Mix greens by combining Prussian Blue and Yellow Ochre. Create browns by mixing Burnt Umber with Cadmium Red and Yellow Ochre. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques