plate no. 0313
Village backyard
Ivan Generalić, 1937
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and understanding how to create depth using value and color. It also provides practice in rendering textures like hay and foliage with simple brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, trees, and figures, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and ground, then the buildings and trees.
- step 03
Add the darker values to define the shadows and create contrast.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the buildings, such as windows, doors, and roof lines.
- step 05
Paint the haystacks and figures, paying attention to the texture and form.
- step 06
Add details to the trees, such as branches and leaves.
- step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values as needed.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · burnt sienna · cadmium yellow light · ultramarine blue
Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining black, umber, and white. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the hay. Add small amounts of blue to darken colors and create shadows.
techniques
- ·blocking
- ·layering
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·simplification
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the details of the buildings and trees.
- →Not creating enough contrast between light and dark areas.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Losing the overall composition by focusing too much on individual elements.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes size 2-6
- ·flat brushes size 4-8
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oils)
- ·mineral spirits (if using oils)
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·apron
Use a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process. Consider using acrylics for faster drying time.
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