plate no. 7808
Lombardy Poplars
Eric Ravilious, 1935
some experience helpful
This painting is great for practicing layering and creating depth using a limited color palette. Students will learn to simplify complex forms into geometric shapes and use subtle value changes to create form.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the trees and the horizon line.
- step 02
Establish the sky with a thin wash of grey.
- step 03
Block in the dark areas of the forest in the background using a mix of greens and browns.
- step 04
Paint the lighter areas of the trees and foliage, layering different shades of green and grey.
- step 05
Add details to the tree trunks, focusing on the vertical lines and subtle variations in tone.
- step 06
Paint the field in the foreground, using horizontal strokes to create a sense of depth.
- step 07
Add the tree stumps and other small details to the foreground.
- step 08
Refine the details and adjust the values to create a cohesive and balanced composition.
color palette
primary · grey · green · white
secondary · brown · dark green · light grey
Mix greens by combining blues, yellows, and browns. Create different shades of grey by adding small amounts of black or brown to white.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·dry brushing
- ·color mixing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·geometric simplification
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Using too many colors
- →Ignoring the value structure
- →Not establishing a clear focal point
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Canvas or watercolor paper
- ·Acrylic or watercolor paints
- ·Round brushes (various sizes)
- ·Flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·Palette
- ·Water container
- ·Paper towels
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Easel
- ·Medium (for acrylics)
- ·Masking tape
Using a toned canvas can help establish the overall mood of the painting. Consider using a warm grey or a light green.
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