plate no. 5411

Two Figures at the Seashore

Elmer Bischoff, 1957

oil, canvasExpressionismnude painting (nu)figuresseascapeskywaterbeachnude

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning how to suggest form with loose brushstrokes and how to create a sense of atmosphere with color. It also teaches how to simplify complex subjects 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 shapes of the figures and the horizon line with a light pencil.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the sky, water, and figures using thin washes.
step 03
Establish the darkest and lightest values to create a sense of depth.
step 04
Add more detail to the figures, focusing on the highlights and shadows.
step 05
Refine the brushstrokes to create texture and movement in the water and sky.
step 06
Use short, broken brushstrokes to suggest the details of the landscape.
step 07
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition.
step 08
Step back and make adjustments to the values and colors as needed.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · viridian green · burnt umber

Mix red and yellow ochre for the warm tones in the sky. Combine blue and yellow for greens in the figures and landscape. Use white to lighten values and create highlights.

techniques