plate no. 9618
Attic Memories
Norman Rockwell, 1925
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, rendering textures, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in capturing realistic lighting and shadow.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figure and objects.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors, focusing on the overall value structure.
- step 03
Develop the background, gradually adding details and atmospheric perspective.
- step 04
Refine the figure, paying close attention to the facial features and drapery folds.
- step 05
Add details to the chest, objects, and cat, focusing on texture and form.
- step 06
Adjust the lighting and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.
- step 07
Add final highlights and details to enhance the overall effect.
- step 08
Review and refine the painting, making any necessary adjustments to color, value, and composition.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna
secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red light
Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining raw umber, burnt sienna, ultramarine blue, and titanium white. Use yellow ochre and cadmium red light to create warm highlights and accents.
techniques
- ·portraiture
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of the figure or objects.
- →Overworking the details before establishing the overall value structure.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective.
- →Inaccurate color mixing, resulting in muddy or unnatural colors.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints (raw umber, titanium white, ultramarine blue, burnt sienna, yellow ochre, cadmium red light)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·selection of round and flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·retouch varnish
- ·painting medium
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
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