plate no. 0134
A Cup of Tea
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, tree, and table.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and water.
- step 03
Establish the values of the tree trunk and foliage, paying attention to the light and shadow.
- step 04
Paint the figures, focusing on capturing the form and drapery of the clothing.
- step 05
Add details to the table setting and hammock.
- step 06
Refine the brushwork and add highlights to create a sense of depth and dimension.
- step 07
Adjust the colors and values as needed to create a harmonious composition.
- step 08
Add final details and adjust contrasts.
color palette
primary · titanium white · viridian green · ultramarine blue
secondary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · cadmium red
Mix greens by combining viridian green and yellow ochre. Use burnt umber and ultramarine blue to create darker shadows. Add titanium white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·alla prima
- ·color layering
- ·impasto
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure
- →Using colors that are too saturated
- →Ignoring the effects of light and shadow
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·viridian green oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·cadmium red oil paint
- ·#6 round brush
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·easel
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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