plate no. 2467

Skidegate

Emily Carr, 1928

oilPost-Impressionismlandscapetotem poletreeslandscapehillsskybeach

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using color to create depth and form. Students will also learn to create texture with visible brushstrokes.

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 totem pole, trees, and landscape, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the main color areas: the sky, hills, trees, totem pole, and ground.
step 03
Begin adding darker values to define shadows and create form, especially on the totem pole and trees.
step 04
Mix and apply various shades of green to create depth and texture in the foliage.
step 05
Use short, directional brushstrokes to build up the texture of the ground and trees.
step 06
Add highlights to the totem pole and trees to create contrast and visual interest.
step 07
Refine the details of the totem pole, paying attention to the carved features.
step 08
Step back and make any necessary adjustments to the composition, color balance, and overall harmony.

color palette

primary · viridian green · yellow ochre · raw umber

secondary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium yellow

Mix greens by combining viridian green with yellow ochre and cadmium yellow. Use raw umber and ultramarine blue to create the dark tones of the totem pole. Add titanium white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques