plate no. 9989
Beguine, Reading Under The Lamp
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, lamp, and book.
- step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the painting, such as the background and shadows under the lamp.
- step 03
Begin building up the mid-tones, paying attention to the subtle gradations of light on the figure's face and clothing.
- step 04
Use short, directional brushstrokes to define the forms and create texture.
- step 05
Add the highlights on the lamp, book, and figure's face to create a focal point.
- step 06
Refine the details, such as the patterns on the lampshade and the texture of the book.
- step 07
Check the overall balance of values and make adjustments as needed.
- step 08
Add final touches to enhance the atmospheric effect.
color palette
primary · ivory black · payne's gray
secondary · raw umber · titanium white
Achieve the various shades by mixing ivory black and payne's gray with varying amounts of titanium white. Add small amounts of raw umber to warm up certain areas.
techniques
- ·dry brushing
- ·scumbling
- ·value studies
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·limited palette
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall atmospheric effect.
- →Creating too much contrast, which can flatten the image.
- →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
- →Not paying attention to the direction of the brushstrokes.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·payne's gray oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
Use a canvas with a smooth texture to allow for easier blending. Consider toning the canvas with a thin wash of raw umber before starting.
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