plate no. 3758

Les arbres du quai de la Gourdine à Lagny

oilImpressionismlandscapetreeslandscapewaterskypathbuildings

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning how to create depth using atmospheric perspective and how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. Students will also practice layering colors to achieve a sense of light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the trees, path, and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, water, ground, and tree foliage.
step 03
Establish the light and shadow patterns on the trees, using a warm yellow for highlights and a cool purple for shadows.
step 04
Develop the details of the path, adding variations in color and texture to suggest the uneven surface.
step 05
Refine the foliage, using short, broken brushstrokes to create a sense of depth and texture.
step 06
Add the distant buildings and landscape elements, paying attention to atmospheric perspective.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of harmony and balance.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson · viridian green

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow. Create purples by mixing red and blue. Use white to lighten colors and create tints for the sky and highlights.

techniques