plate no. 0050
The Arno in Rovezzano
Odoardo Borrani, 1899
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand atmospheric perspective and how to simplify complex architectural forms into basic shapes. It also provides practice in mixing subtle color variations to represent light and shadow.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the buildings, river, and boats.
- step 02
Block in the sky with a light blue, slightly darker towards the top.
- step 03
Establish the basic colors of the water, blending light and dark greens and blues.
- step 04
Paint the buildings using a mix of ochre, umber, and white, paying attention to the light and shadow.
- step 05
Add the trees and foliage with darker greens and browns, using short, broken brushstrokes.
- step 06
Paint the boats, focusing on their shapes and reflections in the water.
- step 07
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and architectural features.
- step 08
Refine the overall painting, adjusting colors and values as needed.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white
secondary · sap green · raw sienna · cadmium yellow light
Mix greens for the water and foliage by combining blue and yellow. Achieve the building colors by mixing ochre, umber, and white in varying proportions. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·blending
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details in the buildings, losing the overall impression.
- →Making the water too uniform in color, neglecting the subtle variations.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective.
- →Using colors that are too saturated, resulting in an unrealistic appearance.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 12x16
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grit canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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