plate no. 4638

Bad Boy

Eric Fischl, 1981

oil, canvasContemporary Realismnude painting (nu)figureinteriorbedwindowfruitdomestic

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to depict light and shadow on complex forms and how to create a sense of depth and space using color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and objects.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, using thin washes of paint.
step 03
Begin to build up the forms with layers of paint, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Add details to the figures and objects, such as the folds in the bedsheets and the texture of the fruit.
step 05
Refine the colors and values, making sure to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 06
Add the highlights and shadows to the figures and objects to create a sense of realism.
step 07
Pay attention to the details of the background and the overall composition.
step 08
Add final details and adjustments to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · viridian green · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue

Mix greens by combining viridian green and yellow ochre. Use white to lighten the greens and blues. Browns can be achieved by mixing burnt umber with small amounts of blue or red.

techniques