plate no. 1145

Palazzo Ducale, Venezia

oilRealismcityscapebuildingswaterskyfigurescityscapecolumns

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice atmospheric perspective and rendering architectural details with simplified forms. Students can also develop skills in depicting figures and creating a sense of depth in a cityscape.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the buildings, columns, and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the sky with a light blue wash, adding subtle variations in tone for the clouds.
step 03
Establish the base colors for the buildings, water, and ground, paying attention to the overall color harmony.
step 04
Begin adding details to the buildings, such as windows, arches, and decorative elements, using a smaller brush.
step 05
Paint the figures and other small details, focusing on their shapes and proportions.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Refine the details and make any necessary adjustments to the composition.
step 08
Add final details like birds and reflections in the water.

color palette

primary · sky blue · cream · light ochre

secondary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue · gray

Mix light ochre with white and a touch of burnt sienna for the building facades. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky, adding a touch of burnt sienna for warmer tones.

techniques