plate no. 1698

The North Gate of the Citadel

oil, canvasRomanticismlandscapebridgebuildingstreesfiguresskygate

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in creating atmospheric perspective and rendering realistic brick textures. Students will also learn how to depict figures in a landscape setting with accurate proportions and lighting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the perspective of the bridge and buildings.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors of the sky, trees, and buildings with thin washes.
step 03
Establish the light and shadow patterns on the buildings and bridge.
step 04
Begin adding details to the brickwork, using varying shades of brown and gray.
step 05
Paint the figures, paying attention to their proportions and clothing details.
step 06
Refine the foliage of the trees, using small brushstrokes to create texture.
step 07
Add the final details, such as the reflections in the water and the small figures in the distance.
step 08
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · burnt sienna · yellow ochre · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of brown and gray for the brickwork by combining raw umber, burnt sienna, and titanium white. Create the sky by blending ultramarine blue and titanium white, adding a touch of yellow ochre for warmth.

techniques