plate no. 6018
Motel, Route 66
John Register, 1991
some experience helpful
This painting provides an opportunity to practice color mixing for subtle variations in light and shadow, as well as understanding atmospheric perspective in a nocturnal scene. Students can also learn about creating a sense of depth through careful observation of value changes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to perspective.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the darkest values.
- step 03
Gradually build up the lighter values, focusing on the light sources and reflections.
- step 04
Refine the shapes and edges of the buildings and other elements.
- step 05
Add details like the 'OPEN' sign and the texture of the bush.
- step 06
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to create the desired mood.
- step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth.
- step 08
Step back and evaluate the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red
secondary · yellow ochre · viridian green
Mix ultramarine blue and white for the night sky and building shadows. Use cadmium red and yellow ochre for the red accents and warm highlights. Mix viridian green and yellow ochre for the bush.
techniques
- ·color mixing
- ·value studies
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·blocking in
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Failing to accurately capture the perspective of the buildings.
- →Making the colors too bright or saturated for a night scene.
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall sense of atmosphere.
- →Not paying enough attention to the subtle value changes.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·mineral spirits or turpentine (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·painting rags
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Acrylics are more beginner-friendly, but oils offer richer colors and blending capabilities.
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