
plate no. 9594
Hiroshige, 1858
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to create depth using atmospheric perspective and practice rendering simple shapes with minimal shading. It also introduces the concept of stylized representation of natural elements.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, shoreline, and trees, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
Block in the large areas of color: dark blue for the sky, light blue for the water, and white for the snow-covered mountains.
Add the darker tones to the mountains to create shadows and define their forms.
Paint the trees using simple brushstrokes, focusing on their silhouette and placement.
Add the details of the buildings, paying attention to their simplified forms and color.
Create the snow effect by adding small white dots to the sky and mountains.
Outline key elements with thin lines to define shapes and add contrast.
Add the red details of the signs and buildings.
color palette
primary · Prussian blue · Titanium white · Red
secondary · Payne's gray · Yellow Ochre
Mix white with a touch of blue to create the various shades of snow. Use a very small amount of yellow ochre to warm up the white in some areas.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · Stretched canvas or watercolor paper
required
optional
Use a smooth surface to mimic the flatness of the original woodblock print. Acrylics are recommended for their fast drying time and ease of use.
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