plate no. 7899

Mountains in Winter

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, 1919

oilExpressionismlandscapemountainsskytreessnowmoonlandscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using bold, expressive brushstrokes to convey texture and emotion. Students will also learn about color relationships and how to create a mood through color choices.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, trees, and sky, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and the main mountain ranges.
step 03
Add the darker values to define the shadows and create depth in the mountains and trees.
step 04
Introduce the lighter values to represent snow and highlights.
step 05
Refine the details of the trees and buildings in the foreground.
step 06
Paint the moon and the surrounding clouds.
step 07
Add final touches and adjustments to balance the composition and enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Crimson Red · Yellow Ochre

secondary · Black · White · Sap Green

Mix blue and black for the darker mountain shadows. Use white to lighten the blue for snow. Mix red and yellow for the sky and the moon's glow. Use green and yellow for the clouds.

techniques