plate no. 5514

The large garden in Montrouge

oilImpressionismlandscapegardentreespathbuildingsfoliagearchitecture

some experience helpful

This painting allows students to practice layering colors to create depth and texture, and to understand how to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and values. Students will also learn to create a sense of atmosphere through color and brushwork.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the path, the buildings in the background, and the overall structure of the trees and foliage.
step 02
Establish the darkest values first, using a thin wash of dark green or brown to block in the shadows.
step 03
Begin layering in the mid-tones, using broken brushstrokes to create texture and visual interest.
step 04
Mix a range of greens, browns, and blues to represent the foliage, varying the color temperature and value to create depth.
step 05
Add the lighter values, focusing on the areas where the light is hitting the trees and buildings.
step 06
Paint the buildings in the background, simplifying the details and focusing on the overall shape and color.
step 07
Refine the details, adding small touches of color and texture to bring the painting to life.
step 08
Add final highlights to create a sense of light and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · dark green · brown · ochre · white

secondary · blue · red · yellow

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows with varying amounts of brown or black to create different shades. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix red and yellow to create the roof colors.

techniques