plate no. 6458

Teepees at Sunset

Maynard Dixon, 1919

oilImpressionismlandscapeteepeeslandscapesunsetskyplainshorse

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in capturing atmospheric perspective and creating a sense of depth through color and value variations. Recreating this will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and color blocks.

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 teepees, mountains, and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the sky with broad strokes, capturing the sunset colors.
step 03
Establish the base color for the plains, varying the hues to create depth.
step 04
Paint the teepees, focusing on their form and shadow areas.
step 05
Add details to the teepees, such as the poles and openings.
step 06
Paint the mountains in the background with muted colors.
step 07
Add the horse and any other figures or details.
step 08
Refine the colors and values throughout the painting, paying attention to the overall atmosphere.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · titanium white · alizarin crimson · sap green

Achieve the sunset colors by mixing yellow ochre, alizarin crimson, and white. Mute the colors for the plains and mountains by adding a touch of ultramarine blue.

techniques