plate no. 1565

Vue Portuaire

board, oilImpressionismmarinaharborboatsbuildingsskywaterfigures

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice atmospheric perspective and capturing the essence of a scene with loose brushstrokes. It's a good exercise in simplifying complex subjects into basic shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the horizon line and major shapes.
step 02
Block in the sky with a light gray, blending it smoothly.
step 03
Establish the values of the water and land, using horizontal strokes for the water and varied strokes for the land.
step 04
Add the buildings and boats, simplifying their forms and using darker values for shadows.
step 05
Indicate the figures with quick, gestural strokes.
step 06
Add details like masts, flags, and the lighthouse, keeping them loose and impressionistic.
step 07
Refine the values and colors, paying attention to atmospheric perspective.
step 08
Add highlights to suggest light reflecting off the water and buildings.

color palette

primary · titanium white · raw umber · payne's gray

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of gray by combining white, raw umber, and a touch of blue. Use yellow ochre and raw umber to create the sandy tones. Add small amounts of red and blue for the flags.

techniques