plate no. 0283

Rocky Cliffs, Catalina Island

oilTonalismlandscaperocksoceanskycliffsseascape

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes and how to use directional brushstrokes to create texture and volume. Students can practice layering colors and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the cliffs, ocean, and sky, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Block in the sky with a thin wash of light yellow and gray.
step 03
Establish the basic colors of the ocean, using horizontal brushstrokes to suggest the water's surface.
step 04
Begin blocking in the dark values of the rocks, paying attention to the direction of light.
step 05
Add lighter values to the rocks, using broken brushstrokes to create texture and suggest form.
step 06
Refine the details of the rocks, adding highlights and shadows to create depth.
step 07
Add the white highlights of the waves crashing against the rocks.
step 08
Adjust the colors and values throughout the painting to create a harmonious and unified image.

color palette

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

secondary · sap green · raw sienna

Mix various shades of blue and white for the ocean. Use yellow ochre, burnt umber, and white for the rocks, adding touches of green for moss or vegetation. Mix grays by combining ultramarine blue, burnt umber and white.

techniques