plate no. 9377

Riverside Villas

Maria Bozoky, 1980

mixed techniqueExpressionismcityscapebuildingstreescityscapeskyhousespark

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in loose watercolor washes and expressive line work. It also encourages simplification of complex scenes into basic shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, trees, and horizon line with a pencil.
step 02
Apply a light wash of diluted blue and gray for the sky, allowing it to blend and create soft transitions.
step 03
Add washes of brown, red, and yellow to the ground and buildings, varying the intensity for depth.
step 04
Use a darker brown or black to define the tree trunks and branches with loose, expressive strokes.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and roof lines, using a fine brush or pen.
step 06
Introduce hints of green and blue to suggest foliage and shadows.
step 07
Use a fine liner to add details and outlines.
step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely and assess for any final adjustments.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · ultramarine blue · raw sienna

secondary · sap green · alizarin crimson

Mix burnt umber and ultramarine for the dark browns and grays. Dilute colors with water to create transparent washes. Use alizarin crimson to add warmth to the buildings.

techniques