plate no. 4362

Lilac in the park

David Burliuk, 1910

oilPost-Impressionismlandscapetreeslilacsfoliageparkgrasslandscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as using broken color techniques to represent light and shadow in foliage. It's a good exercise in capturing the essence of a scene rather than precise detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, indicating the horizon line and major shapes of the trees and bushes.
step 02
Establish the background sky with light blues and grays, using loose brushstrokes.
step 03
Block in the main areas of green for the grass and foliage, varying the shades to create depth.
step 04
Add darker values to the shaded areas under the trees and bushes.
step 05
Begin layering different shades of green, yellow, and brown to create texture in the grass and foliage.
step 06
Introduce the lilac blossoms with dabs of purple, pink, and white.
step 07
Add highlights to the grass and foliage to suggest sunlight.
step 08
Refine the details and adjust the values as needed to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · sap green · lemon yellow · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · alizarin crimson · dioxazine purple · burnt umber

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and adjust the shade with white or burnt umber. Create the lilac colors by mixing red and blue, adding white for lighter tones.

techniques