plate no. 3067

Newhaven Harbour

Eric Ravilious, 1937

oilMagic Realismmarinalighthouseharborseabuildingsshipsky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in linear perspective and color blocking to create a sense of depth and form. The hatching technique used to create texture and shading is also a valuable skill to learn.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and perspective lines of the composition, focusing on the placement of the lighthouses, buildings, and harbor walls.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, using flat washes for the sky, sea, and buildings.
step 03
Add details to the lighthouses, including the windows, railings, and architectural features.
step 04
Create the texture of the harbor walls and buildings using hatching and cross-hatching techniques.
step 05
Paint the ship in the distance, paying attention to its shape and color.
step 06
Add shadows and highlights to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Refine the details and add any final touches.
step 08
Allow to dry and varnish.

color palette

primary · sky blue · white · grey · light yellow

secondary · burnt sienna · dark blue · light green

Mix various shades of blue for the sky and sea by adding white or a touch of grey. Use burnt sienna and white to create the warm tones of the harbor walls.

techniques