
plate no. 1130
John Henry Twachtman, 1877
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering paint to create depth and atmosphere, as well as simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and values. Students will also practice creating a sense of light and shadow using a limited color palette.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line, the path, and the placement of the trees.
Block in the sky with a light blue, leaving some areas for clouds.
Establish the dark masses of the trees, using a mix of greens and browns.
Paint the field with varying shades of green and brown, indicating the shadows and highlights.
Add the path, using a lighter tone of brown and blending it into the surrounding field.
Refine the details of the trees, adding branches and leaves with loose brushstrokes.
Add the figure on the path, keeping it simple and small.
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · sap green · raw sienna
Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Use burnt umber to darken colors and create shadows. Add white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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