plate no. 0079

Roadway in Vilnius

Mstislav Dobuzhinsky, 1910

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)cityscapecityscapebuildingsroadskyarchitecturecobblestones

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in creating atmospheric perspective and rendering architectural details with simplified forms. Students can learn to mix muted colors and create a sense of depth through color and value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the buildings and the road.
step 02
Block in the sky with a gradient of warm colors.
step 03
Establish the main color blocks for the buildings, using a limited palette.
step 04
Add details to the buildings, such as windows, doors, and roof tiles.
step 05
Paint the road and cobblestones, varying the colors and values to create texture.
step 06
Refine the details and add highlights and shadows to create depth.
step 07
Add the bare tree branches in the background.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to achieve the desired atmosphere.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · raw umber · sap green

Mix muted tones by combining complementary colors. Use white to lighten values and create atmospheric haze. Achieve the red roof tiles by mixing cadmium red with burnt sienna and a touch of ultramarine blue.

techniques