plate no. 5207

Blue Decanter, Polka-Dot Bowl, Suzani

Janet Fish, 2009

oilContemporary Realismstill lifestill lifeflowersfruittableclothpitcherglassware

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing, particularly for achieving vibrant and nuanced hues, and in rendering complex patterns and textures.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and composition, paying attention to the placement of objects.
step 02
Block in the background colors and patterns, focusing on large areas of color first.
step 03
Establish the basic colors and values of each object, working from dark to light.
step 04
Begin to refine the shapes and details of the objects, adding highlights and shadows.
step 05
Mix and apply the colors for the flowers, paying attention to the variations in hue and value.
step 06
Add the details of the patterns on the tablecloth and other objects.
step 07
Refine the edges and details of the painting, adding finishing touches.
step 08
Let dry and apply a varnish for protection.

color palette

primary · cadmium orange · ultramarine blue · sap green · magenta

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white

Achieve the vibrant colors by mixing pure pigments and using white sparingly. Mix greens by combining blues and yellows, and adjust with browns for muted tones. Use glazes to build up color depth.

techniques