plate no. 2057

Winter Path Through the Forest

Rudolf Schweitzer-Cumpana, 1960

oilImpressionismlandscapetreessnowwinterforestfigurepath

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice expressive brushwork and layering colors to create texture and depth. Students can learn to simplify complex scenes by focusing on the overall impression rather than precise details.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main tree trunks and the horizon line.
step 02
Establish the basic color blocks for the sky, snow, and trees using thin washes.
step 03
Begin layering thicker paint to define the shapes of the trees and snowdrifts, using visible brushstrokes.
step 04
Mix and apply various shades of white, blue, yellow, and brown to create the impression of snow and light.
step 05
Add details to the tree trunks, using dark browns and blacks to create texture.
step 06
Indicate the figure with simple shapes and colors.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensional effect.
step 08
Add final touches and details to the foreground to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · burnt umber · ultramarine blue

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red · raw sienna

Mix white with small amounts of blue and yellow for the snow. Create browns by mixing umber, blue, and red. Use varying amounts of white to adjust the value of colors.

techniques