plate no. 9160

The Eddystone Lighthouse

oilRomanticismmarinalighthousewavesrocksskycloudssea

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and rendering realistic waves and water movement. It also provides practice in creating a focal point using light and contrast.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the lighthouse, horizon line, and major wave formations.
step 02
Establish the dark areas of the sky and sea using a thin wash of dark blue/grey.
step 03
Block in the general shapes and values of the lighthouse and rocks.
step 04
Begin layering the waves, starting with the darker areas and gradually adding highlights.
step 05
Refine the details of the lighthouse, paying attention to its structure and form.
step 06
Add the white foam and splashes of the waves using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 07
Soften edges and blend colors to create atmospheric perspective in the sky and distant sea.
step 08
Add final details, such as birds and ships in the distance.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · raw sienna · payne's gray

Mix various shades of blue and grey for the sky and sea by combining ultramarine blue, burnt umber, and white. Use yellow ochre and raw sienna to warm the highlights on the lighthouse and waves.

techniques