plate no. 0227
Blue
Mary Fedden, 2006
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for practicing simplified shapes and color blocking. Students will learn to capture the essence of the subject without intricate details.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the flowers, vases, grapes, and table.
- step 02
Establish the background color with a diluted wash.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the table and the background behind the table.
- step 04
Paint the flowers using simplified shapes and distinct color areas.
- step 05
Add the grapes, paying attention to their form and shadows.
- step 06
Define the details of the vases and the table edges.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth.
- step 08
Refine the details and adjust colors as needed.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · white · purple
secondary · yellow ochre · olive green · grey
Mix different shades of purple by combining ultramarine blue and a red/magenta. Use white to lighten the colors and create variations in tone.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·simplified shapes
- ·flat washes
- ·layering
- ·limited palette
common pitfalls
- →overworking the details
- →muddying the colors
- →inaccurate proportions
- →uneven washes
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paints
- ·watercolor brushes (round and flat)
- ·watercolor paper
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
optional
- ·masking fluid
- ·ruler
- ·palette knife
Use good quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling. Experiment with different brush sizes to achieve various effects.
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