plate no. 9064
Mt. Fuji Above the Clouds, copy after Hokkei's print from the set of Three Lucky Dreams
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for learning about layering colors and creating atmospheric perspective. Students can practice simplifying complex shapes and using a limited color palette.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountain, clouds, and trees, paying attention to the composition.
- step 02
Apply a light wash of pale pink/peach to the sky area.
- step 03
Paint the mountain using a light brown/ochre color, leaving white spaces for the snow.
- step 04
Add darker brown details to the mountain to create texture and form.
- step 05
Paint the clouds using a mix of green and brown, creating swirling patterns.
- step 06
Add the trees in the background with a muted blue-green color, using vertical strokes.
- step 07
Paint the foreground with dark green/black to create depth.
- step 08
Add the calligraphy details last, if desired.
color palette
primary · light brown · pale pink · green
secondary · dark brown · black · light blue
Mix light browns by combining burnt umber and white. Create the cloud color by mixing green with a touch of brown and black. Use diluted colors to achieve the soft, atmospheric effect.
techniques
- ·flat wash
- ·dry brushing
- ·layering
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·color blending
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the colors and losing the delicate, transparent effect.
- →Making the mountain too detailed and losing the sense of distance.
- →Using colors that are too saturated and not muted enough.
- →Not paying attention to the overall composition and balance.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paints or acrylics
- ·watercolor paper or canvas
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·paper towels
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·masking fluid
- ·ruler
Use good quality paints and paper for best results. Practice mixing colors on a separate palette before applying them to the painting.
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