plate no. 2993
A Rose
Thomas Pollock Anshutz, 1907
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering fabric folds. It also provides practice in creating depth and atmosphere through subtle value shifts.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the figure's pose and proportions, paying attention to the angles and placement within the canvas.
- step 02
Establish the main areas of light and shadow with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar neutral color.
- step 03
Block in the large shapes of the dress and background, focusing on the overall color temperature and value relationships.
- step 04
Start building up the color of the dress, mixing various shades of pink and red to create depth and dimension.
- step 05
Refine the details of the face, paying close attention to the highlights and shadows to capture the likeness.
- step 06
Add details to the background and carpet, using smaller brushes to create texture and visual interest.
- step 07
Glaze thin layers of color to unify the painting and enhance the overall atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · rose madder · titanium white · ivory black
secondary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · cadmium red light
Achieve the various shades of pink by mixing rose madder with titanium white and small amounts of cadmium red light. Use burnt umber and ivory black to create the dark tones in the background and shadows.
techniques
- ·portraiture
- ·fabric rendering
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figure wrong.
- →Overworking the details too early in the painting process.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Using colors that are too saturated or unnatural.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 18x24
- ·Oil paints: rose madder, titanium white, ivory black, burnt umber, yellow ochre, cadmium red light
- ·Assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·Palette
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Odorless mineral spirits
- ·Palette knife
- ·Rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a medium to thin the paint and improve flow.
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