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home·artworks·The Sun in His Wrath
The Sun in His Wrath by William Blake

plate no. 3138

The Sun in His Wrath

William Blake, 1820

watercolorSymbolismillustrationfigurestreesskysunangelslandscape
experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering watercolor washes and creating dynamic compositions with multiple figures. It also encourages experimentation with expressive brushwork and color blending.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the main figures and landscape elements, paying attention to proportions and placement.

  2. step 02

    Apply a light wash of yellow and orange to the sky and sun area.

  3. step 03

    Begin layering washes of green and brown for the trees and foliage, building up depth and texture.

  4. step 04

    Paint the figures with diluted washes of grey and brown, adding subtle highlights and shadows.

  5. step 05

    Add details to the faces and clothing, using fine lines and small brushstrokes.

  6. step 06

    Define the edges of the figures and objects with darker washes to create contrast.

  7. step 07

    Add final highlights and details with white or light-colored paint.

  8. step 08

    Glaze with thin washes to unify the colors and create a sense of atmosphere.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · payne's gray

secondary · sap green · cadmium orange · titanium white

Mix various shades of green by combining yellow ochre and payne's gray with small amounts of sap green. Create skin tones by mixing burnt umber with yellow ochre and a touch of cadmium orange.

techniques

  • ·Layering watercolor washes
  • ·Dry brush texture
  • ·Glazing
  • ·Figure drawing
  • ·Creating atmospheric perspective

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the watercolor and losing transparency.
  • →Creating muddy colors by mixing too many pigments.
  • →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
  • →Inaccurate proportions in figure drawing.

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

  • ·Watercolor paints
  • ·Watercolor brushes (round and flat)
  • ·Watercolor paper (140lb)
  • ·Palette
  • ·Water container
  • ·Pencil
  • ·Eraser
  • ·Masking fluid

optional

  • ·Palette knife
  • ·Watercolor pencils
  • ·Spray bottle
  • ·Ruler

Use high-quality watercolor paints for best results. Experiment with different types of watercolor paper to find one that suits your style.

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watercolor techniques →how to learn by studying the masters →
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