plate no. 1467
Spring Evening at Inokashira Park
Hasui Kawase, 1931
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand layering techniques to create depth and practice painting reflections in water. It will also improve their ability to simplify complex shapes into basic forms.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and placement of major elements like the trees and moon.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color: the sky, water, and dark trees in the background.
- step 03
Add the lighter color for the cherry blossom trees, creating a distinct contrast.
- step 04
Paint the reflections in the water, mirroring the shapes above but with softened edges and darker values.
- step 05
Add details to the trees, using small brushstrokes to suggest leaves and branches.
- step 06
Refine the moon and its subtle glow in the sky.
- step 07
Add final details to the water reflections, creating a sense of movement and depth.
- step 08
Make any necessary adjustments to values and colors to achieve the desired mood.
color palette
primary · Prussian blue · Ultramarine blue · Titanium white
secondary · Payne's gray · Cool gray
Mix different shades of blue with white to create the sky and water. Use Payne's gray to darken the blues and create shadows. Mix white with a touch of blue for the cherry blossoms.
techniques
- ·Layering
- ·Blending
- ·Dry brushing
- ·Creating reflections
- ·Value control
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details in the trees, making them look too busy.
- →Making the reflections too perfect, losing the sense of water movement.
- →Not establishing a strong value contrast between the sky and the trees.
- →Using too much white, which will make the painting look chalky.
materials
surface · Stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
- ·Acrylic or oil paints (Prussian blue, Ultramarine blue, Titanium white, Payne's gray, Cool gray)
- ·Round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·Flat brush (size 8)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)
- ·Rags or paper towels
optional
- ·Medium gloss
- ·Easel
Using a limited palette will help to create a harmonious color scheme. Consider using a glazing medium to enhance the depth and luminosity of the colors.
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