plate no. 1914

Les Grands Boulevards

oilImpressionismcityscapecityscapestreetfiguresbuildingstreescarriage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting atmospheric perspective and capturing the reflections of light on wet surfaces. It also provides practice in suggesting detail with loose brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the perspective of the buildings and street.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of neutral color.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the buildings, trees, and figures using simplified color masses.
step 04
Develop the sky with soft, blended strokes, creating a sense of atmosphere.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and architectural elements, using small brushstrokes.
step 06
Paint the figures and carriage, focusing on capturing their movement and form with loose brushwork.
step 07
Create reflections on the wet street by mirroring the colors and shapes of the objects above.
step 08
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and light.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining raw umber, ultramarine blue, and titanium white. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna to create warm tones for the buildings and trees.

techniques