plate no. 8406
The Willow in Winter
Li Huasheng, 1997
some experience helpful
This painting is a great exercise in controlling ink wash and creating depth through varying values. Students will learn to simplify complex forms and capture the essence of a scene with minimal strokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 4 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the rocks, tree, and building.
- step 02
Prepare diluted washes of black ink.
- step 03
Apply the lightest wash to the sky and water areas.
- step 04
Add a medium wash to the rocks and tree trunk, building up darker values in shadowed areas.
- step 05
Use a fine brush to paint the willow branches and details of the building with a darker, more concentrated ink.
- step 06
Add final details and refine the shapes of the rocks and tree.
- step 07
Let dry completely.
color palette
primary · black ink · white (paper)
secondary · grey washes
Vary the amount of water added to the black ink to create different shades of grey.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·value control
- ·simplification
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the painting with too much detail.
- →Using ink that is too dark too early.
- →Creating muddy washes by not letting layers dry.
- →Not varying the ink density enough to create depth.
materials
surface · Rice paper
required
- ·Chinese calligraphy brush (various sizes)
- ·Black ink
- ·Water container
- ·Ink stone or palette
- ·Rice paper or watercolor paper
- ·Felt mat or newspaper
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Water dropper
- ·Paper towels
Experiment with different types of brushes and paper to achieve different effects. Use a soft brush for washes and a stiffer brush for details.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
