plate no. 3147

The Weir, Charenton

C. R. W. Nevinson, 1900

oilCubismcityscapewaterfallbuildingstreesriverfoliageweir

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice depicting water movement and creating depth using atmospheric perspective. Students can also develop skills in simplifying complex shapes and using a limited color palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the buildings, waterfall, and trees.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the perspective of the buildings and bridge.
step 03
Block in the main color masses: sky, trees, buildings, water, and foreground.
step 04
Develop the values, starting with the darkest areas and gradually adding highlights.
step 05
Add details to the buildings, such as windows and architectural features.
step 06
Refine the waterfall, using short, broken brushstrokes to suggest the movement of the water.
step 07
Paint the foliage in the foreground, paying attention to the shapes and patterns of the leaves.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · sap green · yellow ochre · payne's gray

Mix various shades of blue and gray for the sky and water. Use burnt umber and white for the buildings and rocks. Mix greens and browns for the trees and foliage.

techniques