plate no. 0097

Maple Wood

oilExpressionismlandscapetreeswatermountainslandscapeautumnreflection

some experience helpful

This painting allows students to practice color mixing for autumn foliage and learn how to create reflections in water. It also provides an opportunity to explore expressive brushwork and simplified forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the horizon line, mountain range, and tree placement.
step 02
Block in the sky and water with diluted washes of gray and green.
step 03
Begin layering the colors of the trees, starting with the darker shades and gradually adding highlights.
step 04
Create the reflections in the water by mirroring the colors and shapes of the trees, using horizontal strokes.
step 05
Add details to the foreground, such as grass and lily pads, using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 06
Define the tree trunks and branches with dark brown or black paint.
step 07
Refine the mountain range with varying shades of gray to create depth.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · green · gray

secondary · brown · orange · black

Achieve the autumn foliage colors by mixing reds, yellows, and oranges with small amounts of brown or green. Use gray to tone down the colors and create a sense of atmosphere.

techniques