plate no. 2973
Saltash
some experience helpful
This painting is great for practicing simplified forms and understanding perspective in a non-realistic way. Students can learn to create depth using value and overlapping shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, bridge, and road, focusing on the overall composition.
- step 02
Establish the horizon line and the perspective of the road leading into the distance.
- step 03
Block in the large areas of color: the green sky, the grey road, and the off-white buildings.
- step 04
Add the darker tones for the roofs and shadows on the buildings.
- step 05
Paint the details of the windows and the bridge structure.
- step 06
Add the ship in the distance, simplifying its form.
- step 07
Refine the edges and add any final details, such as the fence along the road.
- step 08
Allow to dry and add a protective varnish if desired.
color palette
primary · off-white · grey · green
secondary · black · red · brown
Mix the off-white by adding a touch of grey or brown to titanium white. Achieve the green by mixing yellow and blue, adding a touch of black to dull it down.
techniques
- ·simplified shapes
- ·layering
- ·scumbling
- ·limited palette
- ·perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the details.
- →Making the colors too saturated.
- →Not establishing a clear perspective.
- →Using too many colors.
- →Making lines too straight and perfect.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·rags
- ·varnish
Use a textured canvas to mimic the original painting's surface. Acrylics are beginner-friendly, while oils offer richer colors and blending.
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