plate no. 0056

The Squatters

oil, canvasRomanticismgenre paintingfigurescabindogskylandscapetrees

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering figures in a landscape setting and understanding atmospheric perspective. The painting also offers practice in depicting textures like wood and fabric.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, cabin, and landscape elements.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, ground, cabin, and figures using thin washes.
step 03
Develop the sky with soft gradations of blue and white, paying attention to the cloud formations.
step 04
Add details to the cabin, including the wood grain and shadows.
step 05
Refine the figures, focusing on accurate proportions and shading.
step 06
Paint the dog, paying attention to its anatomy and fur texture.
step 07
Develop the landscape in the background, using atmospheric perspective to create depth.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · raw sienna · ivory black · cadmium yellow light

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and ivory black with white. Use ultramarine blue and white to create the sky, and add a touch of yellow ochre for warmth.

techniques