plate no. 8588
Venice. Grand Canal. Grey day.
Anna Ostroumova-Lebedeva, 1911
some experience helpful
This painting offers a good opportunity to practice linear perspective and capturing reflections in water. Students can also learn to simplify complex architectural details using line and wash techniques.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main architectural shapes and the horizon line, paying attention to perspective.
- step 02
Add the gondolas and figures, keeping them proportional to the buildings.
- step 03
Mix a light blue-gray wash for the sky and water, applying it loosely.
- step 04
Add darker washes to the water to create reflections and depth.
- step 05
Use a fine brush or pen to add details to the buildings, gondolas, and mooring posts.
- step 06
Add small touches of red/orange to the buildings.
- step 07
Reinforce the darkest areas with a slightly darker blue or gray.
- step 08
Allow to dry completely and add final details.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · payne's gray · white
secondary · burnt sienna · raw umber
Mix the blues and grays with varying amounts of white to create different values. Use very diluted washes for the sky and water.
techniques
- ·linear perspective
- ·wet-on-dry
- ·washes
- ·line and wash
- ·simplified detail
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Incorrect perspective
- →Using too much color
- →Uneven washes
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paints
- ·watercolor paper (140lb)
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 6, 10)
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
- ·palette
- ·water container
optional
- ·ruler
- ·masking fluid
- ·fine liner pen
Use a smooth watercolor paper for best results. Experiment with different brush sizes to achieve varying line weights.
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