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home·artworks·Paris Snow Scene
Paris Snow Scene by Christopher Wood

plate no. 6746

Paris Snow Scene

Christopher Wood, 1926

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)cityscapecityscapebuildingstreesfigurescarssnow
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes and using a limited palette to create a cohesive atmosphere. It also provides practice in creating depth through layering and varying line weights.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, trees, and figures, focusing on overall composition.

  2. step 02

    Block in the sky with a light gray wash, allowing some white canvas to show through.

  3. step 03

    Establish the main building masses with varying shades of gray and white, paying attention to the light source.

  4. step 04

    Paint the trees with dark, gestural strokes, varying the thickness of the branches.

  5. step 05

    Add the figures and cars using simple shapes and limited colors.

  6. step 06

    Introduce pops of color with the red car and the orange building detail.

  7. step 07

    Refine the details, such as windows, doors, and architectural elements, using thin lines.

  8. step 08

    Add final touches of snow and shadows to create depth and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · titanium white · payne's gray · ivory black

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of gray by combining white, black, and a touch of blue or brown. Use white to lighten colors and create a sense of distance.

techniques

  • ·dry brushing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·layering
  • ·simplified linework
  • ·limited palette

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking details
  • →creating muddy colors
  • →inconsistent line weights
  • →ignoring the overall composition

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·titanium white oil paint
  • ·payne's gray oil paint
  • ·ivory black oil paint
  • ·#4 round brush
  • ·#8 flat brush
  • ·palette
  • ·linseed oil

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·medium gloss
  • ·easel

Use a canvas with a slightly textured surface to enhance the brushwork. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.

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