plate no. 3489
Paris Fortifications
C. R. W. Nevinson, 1913
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using color to create depth and form. It also provides practice in capturing the essence of a scene with expressive brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, hills, and paths, focusing on the overall composition.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas: sky, buildings, hills, and paths.
- step 03
Add darker values to define the shadows and create depth.
- step 04
Introduce lighter values to represent highlights and create form.
- step 05
Develop the details of the buildings, trees, and figures, using small brushstrokes.
- step 06
Refine the colors and values, adjusting as needed to create a cohesive and harmonious painting.
- step 07
Add texture to the hills and trees using dry brush techniques.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · sap green · titanium white · raw umber
secondary · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue
Mix greens by combining blue and yellow, and use white to lighten values. Create muted tones by mixing complementary colors.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·dry brush
- ·color mixing
- ·layering
- ·simplification
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall impression.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Not simplifying the scene enough and getting bogged down in details.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·#6 flat brush
- ·#2 round brush
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oils)
- ·mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·easel
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
A canvas with a medium texture is recommended. Acrylics are more beginner-friendly due to their faster drying time.
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