plate no. 8190

Trees

Iman Shaggag, 2010

inkInk and wash paintingsketch and studytreesforestwinterlandscapebranches

some experience helpful

This painting helps develop skills in value control using ink wash techniques and creating depth through layering and atmospheric perspective. Students will learn to simplify complex forms and focus on essential shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 4 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the trees and the horizon line.
step 02
Apply a very diluted wash of ink to the entire paper to create a light background tone.
step 03
Begin layering darker washes to define the distant trees, using less ink for those further away.
step 04
Add progressively darker washes to the trees in the foreground, building up the values.
step 05
Use a fine brush to add details to the branches, varying the pressure to create thicker and thinner lines.
step 06
Create the ground plane with a diluted wash, allowing some areas to remain lighter to suggest snow or light.
step 07
Add final dark accents to the tree trunks and branches to create contrast and depth.
step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.

color palette

primary · black ink · water

secondary · gray washes

Achieve different shades of gray by diluting black ink with varying amounts of water. Use more water for lighter tones and less for darker tones.

techniques

·ink wash
·layering
·dry brush
·atmospheric perspective
·value control

common pitfalls

→Using too much ink too early, making it difficult to create lighter values.
→Overworking the details, losing the simplicity and spontaneity of the sketch.
→Not allowing layers to dry completely, resulting in muddy colors.
→Failing to create enough contrast between the foreground and background, flattening the image.

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

·black ink
·watercolor paper
·round brushes (various sizes)
·water container
·mixing palette
·paper towels
·pencil
·eraser

optional

·ruler
·masking fluid
·spray bottle

Use archival quality ink to ensure the longevity of the painting. Experiment with different types of watercolor paper to find one that suits your style.

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