plate no. 5027

The Seine at Saint Mammes

oil, canvasImpressionismlandscaperiverbridgebuildingstreesskywater

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color mixing for atmospheric perspective and how to create texture with visible brushstrokes. It also offers practice in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition: horizon line, riverbank, bridge, and building masses.
step 02
Block in the sky with light blue and white, blending loosely.
step 03
Establish the water using varying shades of blue and green, applying short, horizontal strokes.
step 04
Paint the distant trees and hills with darker greens and blues, softening the edges.
step 05
Add the bridge with light gray and white, paying attention to the perspective.
step 06
Block in the buildings with light colors, adding details like roofs and windows.
step 07
Add details to the foreground, such as figures and reflections in the water.
step 08
Refine the colors and values, paying attention to the overall harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · cerulean blue · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · viridian green · burnt umber · cadmium red light

Mix blues and whites for the sky and water. Use yellow ochre and burnt umber for the sand and buildings. Add small amounts of red to neutralize greens.

techniques