plate no. 3978

Thunderstorm off the Coast

oil, canvasBaroquemarinaseaboatscloudsstormskywaves

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting atmospheric perspective and rendering dynamic water with visible brushstrokes. It also provides practice in creating a sense of drama through light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, paying attention to the horizon line and placement of the boats.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or similar earth tone.
step 03
Block in the sky with broad strokes, focusing on the shapes of the clouds and the light source.
step 04
Begin layering in darker values in the clouds to create depth and drama.
step 05
Paint the sea, using short, broken brushstrokes to suggest the movement of the waves.
step 06
Add details to the boats, paying attention to their shapes and proportions.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows throughout the painting to create a sense of realism.
step 08
Add final details, such as the figures in the boats and the reflections in the water.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining the primary colors. Use white to lighten the values and create highlights. Add small amounts of blue or sienna to adjust the temperature of the grays.

techniques