plate no. 2329

The Pond

L. S. Lowry, 1950

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)cityscapecityscapebuildingsfiguresskyindustrialpond

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice simplified figure drawing and creating atmospheric perspective with muted colors. Students can also learn about creating a sense of depth through layering and repetition of shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings and the pond, paying attention to the overall composition.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the basic perspective of the scene.
step 03
Block in the sky with a light gray or off-white color.
step 04
Paint the background buildings and chimneys, using progressively lighter and more muted colors to create atmospheric perspective.
step 05
Add the middle ground buildings, focusing on their simplified shapes and colors.
step 06
Paint the pond with a light gray or blue-gray color, adding small boats as needed.
step 07
Add the figures in the foreground, using simple shapes and lines.
step 08
Add details such as windows, doors, and chimneys, using a fine brush or pen.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ivory black · raw umber

secondary · burnt sienna · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of gray by combining white and black. Use raw umber to create muted browns and grays. Add small amounts of burnt sienna or yellow ochre to warm up the colors.

techniques