plate no. 6188

Shinjuku Gyoen National Park

Unichi Hiratsuka, 1949

oilSōsaku hangalandscapetreesbridgewaterlandscapeparkfoliage

some experience helpful

This painting helps develop skills in color blocking and simplified representation of complex natural forms. It also provides practice in creating depth through layering and color variation.

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: the horizon line, the bridge, and the general areas for trees and water.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the yellow sky and water.
step 03
Add the darker greens for the foliage, varying the shades slightly.
step 04
Introduce the pinks and purples for the flowering trees, focusing on their overall shape.
step 05
Paint the bridge, paying attention to the reflections in the water.
step 06
Add details to the trees and foliage, using darker greens and browns to create depth.
step 07
Define the edges of the shapes with slightly darker or lighter tones.
step 08
Add final touches, such as the small cloud and the reflections in the water.

color palette

primary · yellow · green · pink

secondary · blue · brown · purple

Mix greens by combining yellow and blue, adjust with brown for darker shades. Achieve pinks by mixing red and white, and purples by mixing red and blue.

techniques