plate no. 4820
Mt. Fuji
Unichi Hiratsuka, 1930
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for learning about color blocking and simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes. It also helps develop skills in creating depth through layering and color variation.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
1
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the mountain, landscape, buildings, and window frame.
- step 02
Divide the scene into distinct color areas (sky, mountain, trees, buildings, window).
- step 03
Start with the sky, using a light blue wash.
- step 04
Paint the mountain with darker blues and whites for the snow cap.
- step 05
Fill in the landscape with greens, yellows, and blues, creating a mosaic effect.
- step 06
Add the buildings using simplified shapes and colors.
- step 07
Paint the window frame with dark blue and pink.
- step 08
Refine the details and edges to achieve a clean, graphic look.
color palette
primary · light blue · dark blue · yellow · green
secondary · pink · white
Mix light blue by diluting dark blue with white. Create variations of green by mixing yellow and blue in different proportions.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·layering
- ·simplification
- ·flat washes
common pitfalls
- →overcomplicating the details
- →muddying the colors
- →uneven color application
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paints
- ·watercolor paper
- ·round brushes (#4, #8)
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
optional
- ·ruler
- ·masking tape
Use good quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling. Consider using masking tape to create clean edges for the window frame.
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