plate no. 4068

Mystras

Alexis Gritchenko, 1921

oilExpressionismcityscapecityscapearchitecturebuildingshillstowerdomes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop their understanding of color blocking and simplifying complex scenes into geometric shapes. It also encourages experimentation with layering washes to create depth and texture.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the cityscape, focusing on the main architectural elements and the division of the landscape.
step 02
Mix a light wash of yellow ochre and apply it to the areas representing the buildings and walls, leaving some areas lighter for highlights.
step 03
Create a green wash by mixing blue and yellow, and apply it to the areas representing the hills and vegetation, varying the intensity for depth.
step 04
Mix a brown wash using burnt umber and apply it to the areas representing shadows and darker architectural details.
step 05
Add touches of red to the domes and other areas to create visual interest and contrast.
step 06
Use a fine brush to add details such as windows, architectural features, and subtle variations in color and tone.
step 07
Allow each layer to dry before applying the next to prevent colors from muddying.
step 08
Evaluate the painting and add any final touches or adjustments to enhance the overall composition and balance.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · sap green

secondary · cadmium red · raw sienna

Mix yellow ochre with small amounts of burnt umber to create variations in the building colors. Use more water to create lighter washes and less water for darker tones. Mix sap green with burnt umber to create darker shades of green for shadows.

techniques

·color blocking
·layering washes
·dry brush
·glazing
·simplified shapes

common pitfalls

→overworking the washes
→muddying the colors
→losing the light and shadow
→not simplifying the shapes enough

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

·watercolor paper 140lb
·watercolor paints
·round watercolor brushes (various sizes)
·palette
·water container
·pencil
·eraser

optional

·masking fluid
·palette knife
·ruler

Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling and ensure the colors blend smoothly. Experiment with different brush sizes to achieve varying levels of detail.

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