plate no. 1879

Virivis Fortuna temple

watercolor, paperRealismlandscapetemplearchitecturefigurebuildingsstreetsky

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in architectural rendering and atmospheric perspective. Students can learn to simplify complex forms and create depth using subtle color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes: temple, buildings, and figure, paying attention to perspective.
step 02
Apply a light wash of diluted yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the sky and ground.
step 03
Establish the basic colors of the buildings with diluted washes, focusing on light and shadow.
step 04
Add details to the temple, such as columns and architectural features, using a smaller brush.
step 05
Paint the figure with simple shapes and colors, adding a touch of red for the clothing.
step 06
Strengthen the shadows and add details to the foreground.
step 07
Refine the overall composition and add any final touches.
step 08
Allow to dry completely.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · raw umber

secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red light · titanium white

Mix yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the warm tones of the buildings and ground. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna for the cooler shadows. Add white to lighten values.

techniques