plate no. 2226
Popocatépetl e Iztaccihuatl
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and color mixing to create depth. They will also learn to simplify complex forms like trees and buildings into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, hills, and foreground elements.
- step 02
Establish the horizon line and the overall composition.
- step 03
Block in the sky with a light blue wash, blending it towards the horizon.
- step 04
Paint the distant mountains with muted colors to create atmospheric perspective.
- step 05
Add the base colors for the hills and fields, focusing on the overall color harmony.
- step 06
Develop the details in the foreground trees and foliage, using varied greens and browns.
- step 07
Add details to the village and buildings, keeping them simple and suggestive.
- step 08
Refine the highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · sap green · cadmium yellow · raw sienna
Mix muted greens by combining yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, and a touch of burnt umber. Achieve atmospheric perspective by lightening and desaturating colors as they recede into the distance.
techniques
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·color mixing
- ·layering
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details in the foreground.
- →Creating colors that are too saturated.
- →Failing to establish a clear sense of depth.
- →Ignoring the subtle color variations in the landscape.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·odorless mineral spirits (for cleaning)
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·rags
- ·photo reference
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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