plate no. 0830

The Gale at Force Hollow

Karl Knaths, 1946

oilCubismlandscapelandscapehillsskytreesfieldsbuildings

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into geometric shapes and practice layering colors to create depth and texture.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the geometric forms of the hills and buildings.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and then moving to the hills and fields.
step 03
Add darker values to define the shadows and create depth.
step 04
Introduce secondary colors to add interest and variation to the landscape.
step 05
Use visible brushstrokes to create texture and movement.
step 06
Refine the details of the trees and other elements, using smaller brushes.
step 07
Add highlights to create contrast and bring out the forms.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Burnt umber · Titanium white

secondary · Yellow ochre · Cadmium red light · Sap green

Mix blues and whites for the sky, umber and white for the hills, and greens with yellow ochre for the fields. Use red to create variations of brown and to add warmth.

techniques