plate no. 9617

Northern Lights

oilRomanticismlandscapeauroraskysnowlandscapecabintrees

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice blending techniques to create atmospheric effects and to learn about layering colors to depict light and shadow in a snowy landscape. Students can also develop skills in depicting distant objects and creating a sense of depth.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and the placement of the cabin and aurora.
step 02
Establish the sky with a base layer of blue, blending in hints of green and purple for the aurora.
step 03
Block in the distant hills and trees with dark blues and greens, keeping the tones muted.
step 04
Paint the snow-covered ground with varying shades of blue and white, using visible brushstrokes to suggest texture.
step 05
Add the cabin, using a warm orange for the light emanating from the windows.
step 06
Refine the aurora with lighter greens and whites, creating soft, diffused edges.
step 07
Add details to the foreground, such as small bushes and snow drifts.
step 08
Review and adjust values and colors to create a cohesive and atmospheric painting.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Titanium White · Viridian Green

secondary · Ultramarine Blue · Burnt Umber · Cadmium Orange

Mix blues and white for the sky and snow. Use viridian green and white for the aurora. Add burnt umber to blues and greens to create darker tones for the trees and distant hills. Mix cadmium orange and white for the light from the cabin.

techniques