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home·artworks·Vue De Stubbeljan
Vue De Stubbeljan by Christian August Lorentzen

plate no. 2452

Vue De Stubbeljan

Christian August Lorentzen, 1790

oilNeoclassicismcityscapewaterboatsbuildingfiguresskytrees
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in atmospheric perspective and rendering reflections in water. Students can also practice drawing figures in different poses and clothing styles.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and major shapes.

  2. step 02

    Block in the sky with diluted washes of blue and white, creating soft cloud formations.

  3. step 03

    Establish the water surface with horizontal strokes, varying the tone to suggest depth.

  4. step 04

    Paint the distant landmass and buildings with muted colors, using atmospheric perspective.

  5. step 05

    Add the boats and figures, paying attention to their proportions and placement.

  6. step 06

    Refine the details of the architecture and foliage, using smaller brushes.

  7. step 07

    Create reflections in the water by mirroring the colors and shapes of the objects above.

  8. step 08

    Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Raw umber · Titanium white

secondary · Yellow ochre · Burnt sienna

Mix blues and whites for the sky and water. Use raw umber and yellow ochre for the buildings and foliage. Add small amounts of burnt sienna for warmth.

techniques

  • ·atmospheric perspective
  • ·rendering reflections
  • ·dry brushing
  • ·layering
  • ·glazing

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details too early
  • →Ignoring atmospheric perspective
  • →Making reflections too symmetrical
  • →Using colors that are too saturated

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

  • ·watercolor paper 140lb
  • ·watercolor paints
  • ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
  • ·flat brush (size 1/2 inch)
  • ·palette
  • ·water container

optional

  • ·masking fluid
  • ·kneaded eraser
  • ·ruler

Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling. Dilute the paints with plenty of water for transparent washes.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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