plate no. 9007

Looking South

oilContemporary Realismgenre paintingporchoceanfigurearchitectureskywater

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in creating atmospheric perspective and rendering subtle variations in light and shadow. Students will learn to simplify complex forms and capture the overall mood of a scene.

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 placement of the porch, figure, and horizon line.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of color, paying attention to the light source.
step 03
Block in the large shapes of the sky and ocean, using broad brushstrokes.
step 04
Develop the details of the porch, including the railings and columns, using a variety of brushstrokes.
step 05
Add the figure, focusing on capturing the pose and expression.
step 06
Refine the colors and values, paying attention to the atmospheric perspective.
step 07
Add final details, such as highlights and shadows.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall effect, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ultramarine blue · raw umber

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

Mix varying amounts of white with blue and umber to create the range of cool grays and blues. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna sparingly to warm up the whites and blues.

techniques