plate no. 1217

Blonde and Brunette

oilImpressionismgenre paintingfiguresbeachoceansandswimsuitswaves

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing light and shadow with visible brushstrokes and mixing colors to represent natural environments.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, ocean, sand, and the figures' skin tones.
step 03
Start adding details to the figures, paying attention to the folds in the clothing and the facial features.
step 04
Develop the background, adding details to the waves and the figures in the distance.
step 05
Refine the colors and values throughout the painting, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create form and dimension.
step 07
Use short, broken brushstrokes to create texture and visual interest.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white · burnt umber

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · alizarin crimson

Mix blues and whites for the sky and ocean, varying the proportions to create different shades. Use yellow ochre, burnt umber, and white for the sand, adding touches of red and blue to create warmth and coolness. Mix greens with blues and yellows for the robe.

techniques