plate no. 7412

Ars Longa, Vita Brevis

Ralph Hedley, 1900

oilRealismportraitfigureportraitartisteaselinteriorpalette

some experience helpful

This painting is a great exercise in capturing a likeness and creating a sense of depth through subtle value changes. Students will learn to mix realistic skin tones and render the texture of clothing and hair.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, easel, and background.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar earth tone.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color, focusing on the large shapes of the figure, clothing, and background.
step 04
Begin to refine the details of the face, paying attention to the subtle shifts in value and color.
step 05
Develop the texture of the beard and hair using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 06
Add details to the easel, palette, and other objects in the scene.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · ivory black

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix skin tones by blending burnt umber, raw sienna, titanium white, and a touch of cadmium red light. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create dark shadows.

techniques