plate no. 2010

On the Hillside

Istvan Farkas, 1931

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfigureshillsidetreesskybuildingstairs

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and simplifying forms to capture the essence of a scene. It also provides practice in creating a muted color palette and using loose brushstrokes.

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 placement of the hillside, figures, building, and tree.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, hillside, and building, using thin washes.
step 03
Add the figures, simplifying their forms and focusing on their overall shapes.
step 04
Paint the tree, using loose brushstrokes to suggest the branches and leaves.
step 05
Add the stairs and fence, paying attention to their perspective.
step 06
Refine the colors and values, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add final details, such as the windows on the building and the texture of the hillside.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Yellow ochre · Titanium white

secondary · Burnt umber · Sap green

Mix Prussian blue and yellow ochre to create the greens for the hillside. Use white to lighten the colors and create a sense of atmosphere. Add a touch of burnt umber to darken the colors and create shadows.

techniques