plate no. 4168

Absents of the mermaid

oilSurrealismmythological paintingfigureswaterrocksshellsmythologylandscape

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in detailed rendering, creating textures with paint, and understanding complex compositions. It also encourages exploration of surrealist concepts and visual storytelling.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and rock formations.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the overall layout of the water area.
step 03
Block in the main color areas using a thin wash of diluted paint.
step 04
Begin building up the textures on the rocks and figures with layers of small brushstrokes.
step 05
Add details to the figures, paying attention to the anatomical forms and subtle variations in tone.
step 06
Refine the water area, creating a sense of depth and movement with varying shades of blue and green.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the forms.
step 08
Finish by adding the small details such as the water droplets and the subtle facial features.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · cerulean blue · yellow ochre

Achieve the various earth tones by mixing burnt umber and raw sienna with varying amounts of white. Add small amounts of blue to create cooler shadows and green hues for the water.

techniques