plate no. 0749

PILOT BOAT AT LE HAVRE

Eric Ravilious, 1938

oilMagic Realismmarinaboatwaterbuildingsskydockclouds

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in linear perspective and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. It also encourages careful observation of light and shadow to define forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic composition, paying attention to perspective lines of the buildings and dock.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, water, buildings, and boat.
step 03
Add the darker tones to define the shadows and create depth.
step 04
Begin adding details to the buildings, including windows and architectural features.
step 05
Work on the boat, defining its shape and adding details like the mast and rigging.
step 06
Create the texture of the water with short, choppy brushstrokes.
step 07
Add highlights to the water, boat, and buildings to create a sense of light.
step 08
Refine the details and adjust the colors as needed.

color palette

primary · gray · beige · black · white

secondary · blue · brown · red

Mix various shades of gray by combining white and black with small amounts of blue or brown. Achieve the beige tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt umber.

techniques