plate no. 6145
Bowl of Eggs
Mary Fedden, 1985
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and experiment with color mixing to achieve a harmonious palette. It also encourages exploration of pattern and texture using visible brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the still life, focusing on proportions and placement.
- step 02
Block in the background and the table with simplified color fields.
- step 03
Paint the main objects (bowls, fruit, flower) using flat, opaque colors.
- step 04
Add patterns to the tablecloth and pitcher, using contrasting colors and simple shapes.
- step 05
Define the edges of the objects and add highlights and shadows to create depth.
- step 06
Refine the details of the flower and the fruit, paying attention to color variations.
- step 07
Add final touches and adjust colors as needed to achieve a cohesive look.
- step 08
Allow to dry and varnish if desired.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · titanium white · black · lavender
secondary · burnt umber · cadmium red · cerulean blue · sap green
Mix lavender by combining white with a touch of purple or blue and red. Achieve the mustard yellow by mixing yellow ochre with a touch of burnt umber. Create variations of brown by mixing burnt umber with yellow or red.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·pattern creation
- ·simplified shapes
- ·visible brushstrokes
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes and details.
- →Using too many colors and creating a muddy palette.
- →Not paying attention to the proportions of the objects.
- →Blending colors too much and losing the flat, graphic quality.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oils)
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
- ·easel
Use a limited palette of colors to simplify the mixing process. Consider using acrylics for faster drying time.
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