plate no. 4475

A Sunny Terrace

Konstantin Gorbatov, 1930

oil, canvasPost-Impressionisminteriorinteriorarcheschairstableflowerslight

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing to achieve subtle variations in light and shadow, as well as practice creating depth through layering and atmospheric perspective.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the arches, tables, and chairs.
step 02
Establish the main light source and areas of shadow with a thin wash of neutral color.
step 03
Block in the large shapes of color, such as the walls, sky, and tablecloths.
step 04
Begin layering colors to create depth and dimension, paying attention to the subtle shifts in hue and value.
step 05
Add details to the chairs, flowers, and other objects, using smaller brushes.
step 06
Refine the edges and highlights to create a sense of realism.
step 07
Add final details and adjust values as needed.
step 08
Varnish the painting when dry to protect the surface and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · titanium white · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · raw umber

Mix white with small amounts of yellow ochre and blue to create the cool tones of the walls. Use burnt sienna and ultramarine blue to create shadows. Achieve the blues of the table cloth by mixing ultramarine with white and a touch of yellow.

techniques