
plate no. 8091
John Glover, 1837
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as practicing detailed brushwork for rendering foliage and figures. It also encourages careful observation of light and shadow to model forms.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the river, hills, and major trees.
Establish the sky with light blue and white, blending softly.
Block in the main areas of the hills and grass with a base layer of green and brown.
Add darker values to the shadows under the trees and rocks.
Begin layering details on the trees, using thin branches and small dabs of color for leaves.
Paint the river, reflecting the sky and surrounding landscape.
Add the figures, paying attention to their proportions and placement.
Refine details and add highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · sap green · raw umber · titanium white · cerulean blue
secondary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ivory black
Mix greens by combining blue and yellow, and adjust the tone with brown or white. Achieve the earthy tones by blending umber, sienna, and ochre.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Using a toned canvas (e.g., light brown or gray) can help establish the mid-tones and create a more harmonious painting.
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