plate no. 2163
Azalea
Oleksa Novakivskyi, 1914
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as understanding how to depict light and shadow on different surfaces. Students will also learn to simplify complex shapes into basic forms.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the flower pot, plant, and background elements.
- step 02
Block in the main colors of the background, furniture, and flower pot using thin washes.
- step 03
Begin layering the colors for the flowers, focusing on the light and shadow areas.
- step 04
Add details to the leaves and branches, using varying shades of green.
- step 05
Refine the details of the flower pot, adding highlights and shadows to create form.
- step 06
Work on the background, adding texture and subtle color variations.
- step 07
Add final highlights and details to the flowers and leaves.
- step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to the composition and colors.
color palette
primary · titanium white · yellow ochre · viridian · burnt umber
secondary · cerulean blue · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson
Mix white with small amounts of yellow ochre and alizarin crimson for the flower petals. Use viridian and yellow ochre for the greens, and burnt umber with white for the furniture.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·layering
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Not paying attention to the subtle color variations in the flowers and leaves.
- →Creating too much contrast, making the painting appear harsh.
- →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 16x20
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·viridian oil paint
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a medium-tooth canvas for better texture. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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