plate no. 2622

White Moon

Milton Avery, 1957

oilExpressionismmarinamoonwaternightreflectionskyabstract

some experience helpful

This painting will help students practice simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create mood. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to add texture and interest.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the horizon line and the basic shapes of the moon, reflection, and clouds.
step 02
Block in the dark areas of the sky and water with a mix of blues and browns.
step 03
Paint the moon with white, adding subtle hints of blue and gray for shading.
step 04
Create the reflection by mirroring the shape of the moon and using similar colors, but slightly lighter and more diffused.
step 05
Add the abstract cloud shapes in the sky with a darker blue.
step 06
Introduce the dark patches in the water, varying the shades of blue and brown.
step 07
Refine the edges of the shapes and add small details to create texture and visual interest.
step 08
Let dry and add a thin glaze of transparent blue to unify the painting (optional).

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · payne's gray · yellow ochre

Mix ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create the dark tones for the sky and water. Use white to lighten the blues for the moon and reflection. Add a touch of yellow ochre to warm up the browns.

techniques