plate no. 2161

Stag and Doe in a Landscape

oilRealismanimal paintinglandscapedeergrassskybushesanimals

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in creating depth through atmospheric perspective and rendering realistic textures of grass and foliage. Students will also learn to simplify complex forms and create a sense of natural light.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and placement of the deer.
step 02
Establish the sky with a light wash of yellow and blue, blending softly.
step 03
Block in the distant mountains with muted blues and purples.
step 04
Lay in the base colors for the grass and bushes, using a mix of browns, greens, and yellows.
step 05
Add details to the deer, paying attention to their anatomy and proportions.
step 06
Develop the textures of the grass and foliage with short, broken brushstrokes.
step 07
Refine the lighting and shadows to create depth and form.
step 08
Add final details, such as highlights on the grass and subtle variations in color.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · sap green

secondary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium yellow

Mix greens by blending yellow ochre, sap green, and a touch of ultramarine blue. Achieve atmospheric perspective by lightening and muting colors in the distance with white and blue.

techniques