plate no. 1064
The Corner of the Paddock
Julian Ashton, 1888
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and rendering textures like grass and foliage with loose brushstrokes. It also provides practice in capturing the subtle variations in light and shadow across a landscape.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, fence, and horizon line.
- step 02
Establish the sky and distant hills with diluted washes of color.
- step 03
Block in the large areas of the field and the hillside, using a warm yellow-ochre base.
- step 04
Add details to the fence, varying the color and value to suggest age and weathering.
- step 05
Paint the figure, paying attention to the folds and shadows in the clothing.
- step 06
Develop the texture of the grass and foliage with broken brushstrokes and varying colors.
- step 07
Add details to the trees and bushes, using darker tones to create depth.
- step 08
Refine the overall painting, adjusting values and colors as needed to create a sense of atmosphere.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna
secondary · titanium white · raw umber · alizarin crimson
Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Achieve muted tones by adding a touch of burnt sienna or raw umber to your colors.
techniques
- ·dry brushing
- ·layering
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the loose, impressionistic feel.
- →Creating too much contrast and making the painting look harsh.
- →Failing to establish a clear sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Not varying the brushstrokes enough to create texture.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·watercolor paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·paper towels
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·rigger brush
- ·masking fluid
Use high-quality watercolor paints for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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