plate no. 5054

Rhythmus der Bäume

oilExpressionismlandscapetreeslandscapeforestbranchesgroundshadows

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to use a limited color palette to create depth and atmosphere, and how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the trees and the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the sky, ground, and tree trunks using thinned paint.
step 03
Add darker values to define the shadows and create depth.
step 04
Mix lighter values to highlight the tree trunks and ground.
step 05
Paint the branches using a thin brush and a dark blue-purple color.
step 06
Refine the details of the tree trunks and branches, paying attention to the direction of light.
step 07
Add final touches to the ground and sky to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 08
Let the painting dry and add a layer of varnish for protection.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Yellow ochre · Titanium white

secondary · Burnt umber · Ultramarine blue

Mix Prussian blue and yellow ochre to create the greens in the ground. Add white to create lighter shades of blue for the tree trunks. Use burnt umber to darken the shadows.

techniques