plate no. 8266
The First of the Ebb, the Sailor and the Sea
Edward Wadsworth, 1938
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the horizon line and the major shapes.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and the sea.
- step 03
Add the wooden beam and the objects hanging from it, paying attention to their shapes and proportions.
- step 04
Paint the details of the dock and the boat in the background.
- step 05
Refine the colors and values, adding highlights and shadows to create depth.
- step 06
Add the details of the fishing lures and the ropes.
- step 07
Finish by adding any final touches and details.
color palette
primary · sky blue · tan · red
secondary · white · green · yellow
Mix various shades of blue for the sky and sea by adding white or a touch of green. Achieve the tan color by mixing yellow, brown, and white. Use red as an accent color for the lures and other details.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·blending
- ·geometric shapes
- ·rendering textures
common pitfalls
- →uneven color mixing
- →inaccurate proportions
- →muddy colors
- →overworking details
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·water
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·ruler
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Acrylic paints are recommended for their fast drying time and ease of use.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
