plate no. 5529

The Main Street, Combles

William Orpen, 1917

oilPost-Impressionismcityscaperuinsbuildingskybricksarchitecturelandscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting textures with visible brushstrokes and understanding atmospheric perspective to create depth. It also encourages simplification of complex forms into basic shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the buildings and the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and the general tones of the ruins.
step 03
Establish the darkest shadows and lightest highlights to create a sense of form and depth.
step 04
Begin adding details to the ruins, focusing on the brickwork and the textures of the debris.
step 05
Use broken brushstrokes to suggest the uneven surfaces and the effects of light and shadow.
step 06
Refine the colors and values, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
step 07
Add final details, such as the small architectural elements and the vegetation.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments to the composition or color balance.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · sap green · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of brown and pink by combining burnt sienna, white, and small amounts of red or yellow. Create the sky by mixing ultramarine blue with white, adding a touch of yellow for a warmer tone.

techniques