plate no. 2305

Summer Landscape, Thunder looms

oilRomanticismlandscapelandscapecloudstreeswaterbuildingscattle

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and creating depth through layering and value changes. They will also practice blending techniques to create soft transitions and realistic textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the horizon line, the large tree trunk, and the buildings.
step 02
Block in the sky with broad strokes, establishing the dark storm clouds and lighter areas.
step 03
Establish the base colors for the distant hills and trees, using muted greens and blues to create atmospheric perspective.
step 04
Paint the water, reflecting the colors of the sky and surrounding landscape.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, focusing on their structure and texture.
step 06
Paint the large tree trunk, paying attention to its form and the texture of the bark.
step 07
Add the cattle in the foreground, using darker values to make them stand out.
step 08
Refine the details and add highlights to create depth and realism.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · yellow ochre

secondary · titanium white · sap green · cadmium yellow

Mix muted greens by combining yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, and a touch of burnt umber. Achieve atmospheric perspective by adding white to colors for distant elements.

techniques