plate no. 0590

Morning Effect, Banks of the Yonne River

Francis Picabia, 1905

oil, canvasImpressionismlandscapetreesriverlandscapeskypathvegetation

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice impressionistic brushwork and color mixing to create a sense of light and atmosphere. Students can also learn about composition and creating depth in a landscape.

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 trees, riverbank, and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the sky with light blues and whites, using loose, broken brushstrokes.
step 03
Establish the basic colors of the river and foreground, using greens, yellows, and browns.
step 04
Add the trees, using a variety of browns, grays, and greens to create texture and depth.
step 05
Develop the path with ochre and brown tones, suggesting the texture of the ground.
step 06
Add details to the riverbank vegetation, using short, broken strokes of various greens and browns.
step 07
Refine the colors and values throughout the painting, paying attention to the overall harmony and balance.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of light and atmosphere.