plate no. 7362
Leidseplein
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in loose, expressive brushwork and capturing the essence of a scene rather than precise details. It also encourages the study of atmospheric perspective and simplifying complex subjects.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and perspective lines of the buildings and street.
- step 02
Establish the horizon line and the vanishing point(s).
- step 03
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall value structure.
- step 04
Use loose, expressive brushstrokes to define the shapes of the buildings, cars, and people.
- step 05
Add details to the focal point areas, such as the signs and windows.
- step 06
Create a sense of depth by using lighter values and less detail in the background.
- step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to create contrast and dimension.
- step 08
Add final touches and details to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · gray · white · brown · blue
secondary · red · yellow · black
Achieve the various grays by mixing white with small amounts of brown, blue, and black. Use thin washes of color to create atmospheric effects.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·dry brush
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·scumbling
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the loose, expressive quality.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Ignoring the principles of perspective.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Canvas or painting panel
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·Round and flat brushes
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water
- ·Rags
- ·Easel
optional
- ·Painting medium
- ·Varnish
Use a medium-sized canvas to allow for expressive brushstrokes. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base color.
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