plate no. 1044
The Solemn Land
J. E. H. MacDonald, 1921
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as understanding atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, lake, and foreground trees.
- step 02
Establish the horizon line and the overall composition.
- step 03
Block in the main color areas: the sky, water, mountains, and trees, using thinned paint.
- step 04
Begin layering colors in the sky to create the cloud formations.
- step 05
Add details to the mountains, focusing on the light and shadow.
- step 06
Develop the foreground trees, using short, broken brushstrokes to create texture.
- step 07
Refine the reflections in the water, using horizontal strokes.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · raw sienna
Mix greens by combining ultramarine blue and yellow ochre. Create muted tones by adding burnt umber to other colors. Achieve the water's color by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and white.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·layering
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details in the trees, resulting in a cluttered appearance.
- →Failing to establish a clear light source, leading to a lack of depth.
- →Using colors that are too saturated, resulting in an unrealistic landscape.
- →Neglecting the reflections in the water, making it appear flat.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
- ·easel
Use a medium-tooth canvas for better texture. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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