plate no. 9678
The Rainbow
Grandma Moses, 1961
some experience helpful
This painting offers a great opportunity to practice simplified forms and layering techniques. Students can learn to create a sense of depth using color and size variations.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of major elements like the trees, buildings, and figures.
- step 02
Block in the sky with a light gray wash, adding subtle variations for clouds.
- step 03
Paint the distant hills and fields using muted greens and yellows.
- step 04
Add the main tree, focusing on its overall shape and branch structure.
- step 05
Block in the larger buildings and structures with simplified shapes and colors.
- step 06
Paint the figures in the foreground, using simple shapes and colors to define their forms.
- step 07
Add details like the rainbow, animals, and smaller plants.
- step 08
Refine the details and add highlights and shadows to create depth.
color palette
primary · green · yellow · brown · gray
secondary · red · white · pink · blue
Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and create variations by adding browns or whites. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·simplified forms
- ·color blocking
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the details and losing the naive style.
- →Using too much detail in the background, which can flatten the image.
- →Not simplifying the forms of the figures and buildings.
- →Ignoring the color variations in the landscape.
materials
surface · Stretched canvas
required
- ·Acrylic paints (green, yellow, brown, gray, red, white, blue)
- ·Canvas or painting panel (12x16 inches)
- ·Assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·Palette
- ·Water container
- ·Paper towels
- ·Pencil
- ·Eraser
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Retarder medium
- ·Easel
Use acrylic paints for faster drying time and ease of cleanup. A larger canvas can be used for more detail.
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