plate no. 8398

Trenches

oilExpressionismlandscapetrencheslandscapeskywarbarbed wiresunset

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and color mixing to convey mood. It also provides practice in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and the main shapes of the trenches and sky.
step 02
Block in the sky with broad strokes of red, blue, and black, blending slightly to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 03
Establish the dark values in the trenches using a mix of black, brown, and a touch of red.
step 04
Add highlights to the rocks and debris with white and gray, using visible brushstrokes to create texture.
step 05
Paint the barbed wire and wooden posts with thin lines of black and brown, varying the thickness for visual interest.
step 06
Introduce touches of red throughout the composition to unify the color scheme and suggest a sense of danger.
step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values to create depth and contrast.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to emphasize the texture and form.

color palette

primary · black · red · white · blue

secondary · brown · gray

Mix black and brown for the dark areas of the trenches. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix red and blue to achieve the purple hues in the sky.

techniques