plate no. 4499

Backstage

oil, canvasBiedermeiergenre paintingfiguresbackstageinteriordancersdressing roommirror

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice capturing figures in motion and creating a sense of depth using atmospheric perspective and limited color palette. It also provides an opportunity to explore loose brushwork and suggestive detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the composition and placement of figures.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thinned washes of burnt umber and raw sienna.
step 03
Establish the light source and begin to build up the highlights on the figures and in the background.
step 04
Develop the details of the figures, focusing on capturing their gestures and expressions.
step 05
Use loose brushstrokes to suggest the textures of the costumes and the environment.
step 06
Refine the values and colors, paying attention to the atmospheric perspective.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Glaze with thin washes of color to unify the painting and create a sense of atmosphere.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black

Achieve the muted tones by mixing burnt umber and raw sienna with varying amounts of white. Use small amounts of black to darken shadows and create depth.

techniques