plate no. 9395

View of the Sea from Malibu

Paul Wonner, 1965

oilImpressionismlandscapeseaskytreesbuildingslandscapefoliage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and using expressive brushstrokes to suggest form and texture. It also encourages simplification of complex scenes into basic shapes and colors.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic composition: horizon line, major landforms, and building shapes.
step 02
Block in the sky and sea with diluted washes of blue and grey.
step 03
Establish the dark masses of the foliage using a mix of greens and blues.
step 04
Add the building shapes with touches of red and white, keeping them simple.
step 05
Layer lighter greens and yellows on top of the dark foliage to suggest sunlight and highlights.
step 06
Refine the sky and sea with subtle variations in color and tone.
step 07
Add final details with small, expressive brushstrokes to create texture and interest.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · cerulean blue · viridian green · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · payne's grey

Mix greens by combining blue and yellow. Create muted tones by adding a touch of complementary color (e.g., a touch of red to green). Use white to lighten colors and create atmospheric perspective.

techniques