plate no. 4567

Lighthouse at Stora Bält

oilRomanticismmarinalighthouseoceanwavesstormcloudssky

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting dynamic water and atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in rendering realistic textures and light effects on different surfaces.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the lighthouse and the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large shapes of the sky and the sea with broad strokes, establishing the overall value structure.
step 03
Develop the cloud formations, paying attention to the subtle gradations of light and shadow.
step 04
Begin to define the waves, using directional brushstrokes to indicate their movement and form.
step 05
Paint the lighthouse, capturing its cylindrical shape and the details of its structure.
step 06
Add the crashing waves around the base of the lighthouse, using white and light-colored paint to create the foam and spray.
step 07
Refine the details of the water and the lighthouse, adding highlights and shadows to enhance their realism.
step 08
Add final details like the birds and the distant ship.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt umber · raw sienna · cadmium yellow light · cerulean blue

Mix various shades of gray and blue-green for the sky and sea. Use yellow ochre and white to create the warm tones of the lighthouse. Add small amounts of burnt umber to darken colors and create shadows.

techniques