plate no. 4287
The Bridge
Dorrit Black, 1930
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand simplified forms and color blocking to create depth and dimension. It's a good exercise in abstracting a realistic scene.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the geometric forms.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and water.
- step 03
Define the shapes of the landmasses and buildings with darker and lighter values.
- step 04
Add details to the bridge and boat, maintaining the simplified style.
- step 05
Refine the edges and blend colors where necessary to create smooth transitions.
- step 06
Add subtle details like the waves and the telephone pole.
- step 07
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to the composition or color balance.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · sap green · burnt sienna · payne's gray
Mix various shades of blue by adding white or raw umber. Create greens by mixing blue and yellow ochre. Use burnt sienna and raw umber for the browns and earth tones.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·flat washes
- ·blending
- ·geometric abstraction
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes and details.
- →Using too many colors and creating a muddy palette.
- →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
- →Not simplifying the forms enough.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Acrylics are a good option for beginners due to their fast drying time.
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