plate no. 4709
A Corner in the Old Kitchen of the Mittenheim Cloister
T. C. Steele, 1883
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict light and shadow in an interior space, and how to create depth using value and color temperature. It will also teach them how to suggest details rather than rendering them precisely.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the window, figure, and main architectural elements.
- step 02
Establish the dark areas of the painting with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar dark brown.
- step 03
Block in the main light areas around the window and on the floor with a lighter, warmer tone.
- step 04
Begin to build up the details of the architecture, using thicker paint and visible brushstrokes to suggest texture.
- step 05
Add the figure, paying attention to the way the light falls on her form.
- step 06
Refine the details of the window, including the individual panes of glass.
- step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall effect.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · raw sienna · ivory black
Mix various shades of brown and yellow by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and white. Use ivory black sparingly to darken shadows. Add a touch of raw sienna for warmth.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·alla prima
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall impressionistic effect.
- →Making the dark areas too flat and lifeless.
- →Failing to capture the subtle gradations of light and shadow.
- →Not establishing a strong focal point.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·oil paints (burnt umber, yellow ochre, titanium white, raw sienna, ivory black)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a canvas with a medium texture to help create a sense of depth and atmosphere. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.
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