plate no. 7330

AP 1905 Family of Acrobats with Ape

Anthony Padgett, 2018

oilPost-Impressionismsymbolic paintingfiguresclothingsuitcaseinteriorcurtains

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and using expressive brushstrokes to create texture and visual interest. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing to achieve a range of skin tones and fabric colors.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the figures, suitcase, and background.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the background curtains, floor, and figures using thin washes.
step 03
Develop the skin tones by layering different shades of brown, red, and white.
step 04
Add details to the clothing, such as the polka dots on the dress and the tie pattern.
step 05
Define the features of the faces, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 06
Work on the suitcase, using darker browns and blacks to create depth and texture.
step 07
Refine the brushstrokes and add highlights to create a sense of light and form.
step 08
Add final touches and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · blue · white

secondary · green · brown · black

Mix various shades of skin tones using red, yellow, blue, and white. Create greens by mixing blue and yellow. Achieve browns by mixing red, yellow, and blue in different proportions.

techniques