plate no. 1114
An Organ Grinder
L. S. Lowry, 1934
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and understanding atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in depicting figures in motion with minimal detail.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, church, and street layout, focusing on perspective.
- step 02
Establish the horizon line and vanishing point to guide the perspective of the buildings.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the buildings using simplified, flat tones.
- step 04
Add the sky with broad, blended strokes of gray and white.
- step 05
Start adding the figures, using simple shapes to represent their forms and positions.
- step 06
Develop the details of the buildings, such as windows and doors, using a limited palette.
- step 07
Refine the figures, adding subtle details to suggest clothing and movement.
- step 08
Add final touches, such as shadows and highlights, to create depth and dimension.
color palette
primary · red oxide · titanium white · ivory black
secondary · yellow ochre · raw umber · payne's gray
Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white. Use red oxide and white for the buildings, and add touches of yellow ochre for warmth. Create muted tones by mixing complementary colors.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·simplified shapes
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the details of the buildings and figures.
- →Failing to establish a clear perspective.
- →Using too many colors, resulting in a muddy or chaotic composition.
- →Ignoring the atmospheric perspective, making the background appear flat.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·flat brushes (sizes 1/2 inch, 1 inch)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oils)
- ·mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a canvas with a smooth texture to facilitate the application of flat colors. Acrylics are a good choice for beginners due to their fast drying time.
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