plate no. 0698

Shinagawa in Snow

Yamamura Toyonari, 1924

oilSōsaku hangalandscapehousesnowlandscapeskytreeswater

suitable for beginners

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and understanding the use of value to create depth and atmosphere. It also provides practice in creating a limited color palette to evoke a specific mood.

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 house, rooflines, and surrounding landscape, focusing on proportions and perspective.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the basic shapes of the sky and water.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color: the sky, water, house, and snow-covered surfaces.
step 04
Add darker values to define shadows and create contrast, particularly on the house and snow.
step 05
Refine the details of the windows, trees, and other elements, paying attention to their shapes and values.
step 06
Add subtle variations in color to the sky and snow to create depth and interest.
step 07
Include the small details like the utility pole and the bird.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · payne's gray · yellow ochre

Mix ultramarine blue and titanium white for the sky and water, adjusting the ratio for different values. Use burnt umber for the house, adding small amounts of blue or white to adjust the tone. Mix white with a touch of blue for the snow, and a touch of yellow ochre for the warmer areas.

techniques