plate no. 8273

The Grand Muveran

Ferdinand Hodler, 1911

oilSymbolismlandscapemountainslandscapeskysnowhills

some experience helpful

This painting is a good exercise in simplifying complex forms and using color to create depth. Students will learn to mix muted tones and apply paint with visible brushstrokes to build 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 mountain shapes and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the sky with a thin wash of yellow-white.
step 03
Establish the darkest values in the mountain shadows with a mix of blue, purple, and brown.
step 04
Add the mid-tones to the mountains, blending blues and grays.
step 05
Apply highlights to the mountain peaks and snow patches using white mixed with a touch of blue or gray.
step 06
Paint the foreground hills with a mix of yellow, green, and brown.
step 07
Refine the details of the mountain ridges and snow formations.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · purple · gray

Mix blues and browns to create the muted tones of the mountains. Use white to lighten the blues and create highlights. Mix yellow ochre with white for the sky.

techniques