plate no. 9022

Pardes Revisited

Samuel Bak, 1994

oilSurrealismlandscapearchitectureruinssmokelandscapetreesky

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in perspective, rendering textures of old structures, and creating atmospheric effects with smoke and clouds. Students will also learn to balance detail with abstraction to create a surreal atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the composition, focusing on the perspective and placement of the architectural elements.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using a limited palette of earth tones.
step 03
Begin to refine the details of the architecture, paying attention to the textures and patterns of the stone.
step 04
Add the tree and surrounding vegetation, varying the greens and browns to create depth.
step 05
Create the smoke effect by layering washes of gray and brown, blending the edges to create a soft, ethereal feel.
step 06
Refine the sky, adding subtle variations in color and value to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the forms.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the composition, ensuring that all elements work together to create a cohesive and compelling image.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · payne's gray · yellow ochre · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, and payne's gray with titanium white. Use yellow ochre and cadmium red light to add warmth to the earth tones.

techniques