plate no. 6600
Near Heidelberg
Arthur Streeton, 1890
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and loose, impressionistic brushwork to capture light and shadow.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line, tree placement, and the path.
- step 02
Establish the sky with light blue, blending it softly to create a sense of atmosphere.
- step 03
Block in the distant hills with muted purples and browns, using lighter values for areas further away.
- step 04
Lay down the base color for the field, a mix of yellows and browns, varying the tones to create depth.
- step 05
Paint the main tree, using a variety of greens and browns, and indicating the branches with loose strokes.
- step 06
Add the figures in the field, keeping them simple and suggestive.
- step 07
Define the path with lighter values and subtle variations in color.
- step 08
Add final details, such as small plants and highlights, to enhance the overall impression.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt umber
secondary · titanium white · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson
Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Achieve atmospheric perspective by adding white to colors for distant objects.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details, losing the impressionistic feel.
- →Making the colors too saturated, neglecting the muted tones of the landscape.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth through value and color changes.
- →Making the brushstrokes too uniform, resulting in a flat appearance.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grit canvas for better texture.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
related guides
in this vein
