plate no. 1504

Mar Atlántico

oilRealismmarinaoceanwavesskycloudshorizonseascape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand atmospheric perspective and how to depict the movement of water and clouds using visible brushstrokes. It also provides practice in mixing subtle variations of color to create depth and form.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch a light horizon line dividing the canvas into sky and sea.
step 02
Block in the basic shapes of the clouds with light gray and yellow tones.
step 03
Establish the dark blue base color of the ocean, varying the tone slightly.
step 04
Add highlights to the clouds using white and pale yellow, defining their forms.
step 05
Begin layering in the wave patterns with darker blues and purples.
step 06
Use white and light blue to create the foam and crests of the waves, using short, choppy brushstrokes.
step 07
Refine the details of the clouds and waves, paying attention to the direction of light.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the sense of depth and movement.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · payne's gray · violet

Mix ultramarine blue with white for the sky and lighter areas of the water. Add yellow ochre to white for the warm highlights on the clouds. Use burnt umber and ultramarine blue to darken the water and create shadows.

techniques