plate no. 4666

Washing Day, Kallista

Tom Roberts, 1925

oilImpressionismlandscapetreeslandscapehillsfoliageskylight

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, and in capturing the effects of light filtering through trees. It also provides practice in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the trees and the horizon line.
step 02
Establish the overall color scheme with a thin wash of diluted paint.
step 03
Block in the major shapes of the trees, hills, and sky, using broad brushstrokes.
step 04
Begin layering colors to create depth and texture in the foliage and ground.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to define the forms and create a sense of light.
step 06
Refine the details of the trees and foliage, using smaller brushstrokes.
step 07
Add the finishing touches, such as the suggestion of distant hills and the details in the foreground.
step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition and color balance.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · sap green · raw sienna · cadmium yellow light

Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and ultramarine blue. Create variations in the foliage by adding small amounts of burnt umber or raw sienna. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques