plate no. 1362

Nagybanya Sketch with a Walking Figure

Kmetty János, 1932

watercolorImpressionismlandscapebuildingstreesfigureskylandscapechurch

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and understanding atmospheric perspective through color and value changes. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to create texture and depth.

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 of the buildings, trees, and figure, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the sky with a diluted blue wash, allowing it to blend and create soft clouds.
step 03
Establish the base colors for the buildings and trees using light washes of ochre, green, and brown.
step 04
Add darker values to create shadows and define the forms of the buildings and trees.
step 05
Paint the figure with a light grey wash, adding subtle shadows to suggest form.
step 06
Introduce accent colors like the red roof and yellow wall to add visual interest.
step 07
Refine the details of the buildings and trees with small, deliberate brushstrokes.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · raw umber

secondary · burnt sienna · sap green · titanium white

Mix various shades of green by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Create muted tones by adding a touch of raw umber to any color.

techniques

·wet-on-wet blending
·dry brush texture
·color layering
·atmospheric perspective
·simplification of forms

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the loose, impressionistic feel.
→Using colors that are too saturated and bright.
→Failing to establish a clear value structure.
→Ignoring the importance of atmospheric perspective.

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

·watercolor paper 140lb
·watercolor paints
·round brushes (sizes 4, 8, 12)
·palette
·water container
·paper towels

optional

·masking fluid
·palette knife
·kneaded eraser

Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling and allow for better blending. Experiment with different brush sizes to achieve a variety of textures.

tips & new artworks in your inbox

no spam — unsubscribe anytime.

or to save artworks, chat, and track progress

chat about this artwork

in this vein