plate no. 1239

Thunder Bird, Campbell River

Emily Carr, 1929

oilPost-Impressionismlandscapetotem polelandscapeskymountainsfencetrees

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and form, and in using visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy to the artwork. Students will also learn about atmospheric perspective and how to simplify complex forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the totem pole, landscape, and sky, paying attention to proportions and composition.
step 02
Block in the main colors of the sky, mountains, and foreground, using thin washes of paint.
step 03
Begin layering darker values on the totem pole to define its form and create shadows.
step 04
Add highlights to the totem pole to create a sense of volume and dimension.
step 05
Develop the details of the landscape, including the trees, fence, and mountains, using a variety of brushstrokes.
step 06
Refine the colors and values of the sky, blending the tones to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 07
Add final details to the totem pole, such as the eyes and beak, using small brushes.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to the colors, values, and composition.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Yellow ochre · Cadmium green

secondary · Burnt umber · Titanium white · Cadmium red

Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and prussian blue. Create muted tones by adding burnt umber to colors. Use white to lighten values and create highlights.

techniques