Paricutín by Dr. Atl

plate no. 8988

Paricutín

oilExpressionismlandscapevolcanosmoketreeslandscapelavamountains

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

3

brushwork visibility

4

value contrast

4

compositional simplicity

3

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the volcano, smoke clouds, and trees.
step 02
Block in the dark areas of the landscape and volcano with a dark brown or black.
step 03
Add the base colors for the sky and smoke, using lighter shades of blue, gray, and white.
step 04
Layer in the orange and yellow hues of the lava flow, blending them into the darker areas.
step 05
Paint the tree trunks and branches with thin, dark lines.
step 06
Add highlights to the smoke and lava to create a sense of depth and movement.
step 07
Refine the details of the landscape, adding subtle variations in color and texture.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · cadmium orange · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · yellow ochre · raw sienna · payne's gray

Mix oranges and yellows with white to create the glowing lava. Use blues and grays to create the smoky atmosphere.

techniques

·dry brushing
·layering
·scumbling
·blending
·atmospheric perspective

common pitfalls

→overworking the details
→creating mud by over-mixing colors
→not establishing a strong value structure
→making the smoke too opaque

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas 16x20
·acrylic or oil paints
·round brushes (sizes 2, 6, 8)
·flat brush (size 10)
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil or acrylic medium
·mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)

optional

·easel
·painting medium
·varnish

Use a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base value.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →

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