plate no. 7169

Madame Sisley on the banks of the Loing at Moret

oil, canvasImpressionismlandscapelandscapetreesfigureriverbankfoliagesky

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in capturing light and shadow using broken color and loose brushwork, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, trees, and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, such as the sky, ground, and background hills, using thin washes.
step 03
Add the main tree trunks and branches, using varying shades of brown and gray.
step 04
Begin layering the foliage with greens, yellows, and browns, using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 05
Define the figure with loose strokes, capturing the light and shadow on the clothing.
step 06
Add details to the background, such as the suggestion of buildings or other landscape features.
step 07
Refine the foreground with more detailed brushwork, adding texture and depth.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of atmosphere and light.

color palette

primary · viridian green · yellow ochre · raw umber · cerulean blue

secondary · burnt sienna · titanium white · ivory black

Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and viridian green. Achieve earth tones by mixing raw umber with burnt sienna and white. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques