plate no. 9332

Stour River

Frederick George Cotman, 1913

oilRomanticismlandscapelandscapetreesfieldskycloudshorizon

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice atmospheric perspective and layering techniques. Students can develop skills in mixing muted colors and creating a sense of depth through subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on horizon line and placement of major elements.
step 02
Establish the sky with a thin wash of pale blue and white, blending softly.
step 03
Block in the distant landmass with muted blues and greens, keeping values light.
step 04
Paint the field with a base of ochre and brown, adding variations in color and value.
step 05
Add the trees and bushes, using darker browns and greens, and varying brushstrokes to suggest foliage.
step 06
Refine the sky, adding subtle cloud formations with light grays and blues.
step 07
Add details to the field, such as paths and textures, using dry brush techniques.
step 08
Review and adjust values and colors to create a cohesive and atmospheric effect.

color palette

primary · titanium white · yellow ochre · burnt umber

secondary · ultramarine blue · sap green · raw sienna

Mix muted greens by combining yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, and a touch of burnt umber. Achieve atmospheric perspective by lightening colors with white as they recede into the distance.

techniques