plate no. 4820
Mt. Fuji
Unichi Hiratsuka, 1930
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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