plate no. 5070

View of Plascencia

Joaquín Sorolla, 1917

oil, canvasImpressionismcityscapecityscapebuildingsbridgearchitectureskywater

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing to achieve warm and cool tones, as well as practice creating depth through layering and atmospheric perspective. The loose brushwork encourages expressive mark-making.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas, focusing on the placement of the bridge, buildings, and horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and the water, using thin washes of paint.
step 03
Establish the main colors of the buildings and bridge, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Begin layering paint to build up texture and depth, using thicker paint for areas in the foreground.
step 05
Add details to the buildings and bridge, such as windows, arches, and railings.
step 06
Refine the colors and values, adjusting the light and shadow to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 07
Add final touches, such as highlights and reflections, to bring the painting to life.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall composition, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · raw umber · burnt sienna · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · cadmium red light

Mix raw umber and ultramarine blue for the sky. Use burnt sienna and white for the buildings, adding yellow ochre for warmth. Mix cadmium red light and burnt sienna for the redder buildings.

techniques