plate no. 3605

By Aquarium

Remedios Varo, 1961

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingfiguresforestcapekeysurrealtrees

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering figures with unusual proportions and creating depth with subtle color variations in a complex background. It also provides practice in creating a surreal atmosphere through symbolic imagery.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures and the key elements of the background.
step 02
Establish the dark background of the forest using a mix of dark greens and browns, varying the tones to create depth.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures with light washes of color, paying attention to the light source and shadows.
step 04
Develop the details of the figures, including the clothing, facial features, and the key, using small brushes and precise strokes.
step 05
Create the texture of the cape with layers of orange and yellow, blending the colors to create a soft, flowing effect.
step 06
Add the subtle details of the forest, such as the branches and leaves, using a variety of greens and browns.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows on the figures and the background to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Add final details and adjust colors as needed to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white · cadmium orange

secondary · viridian green · ivory black · payne's gray

Achieve the skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt umber. The dark greens of the forest are created by mixing viridian green, burnt umber, and ivory black.

techniques

·glazing
·scumbling
·dry brushing
·layering
·color blending

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details too early in the process.
→Failing to create enough depth in the background.
→Inaccurate proportions of the figures.
→Not capturing the subtle color variations in the cape and clothing.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic gesso
·burnt umber acrylic paint
·yellow ochre acrylic paint
·titanium white acrylic paint
·cadmium orange acrylic paint
·round brushes (sizes 0, 2, 4)
·flat brush (size 6)

optional

·palette knife
·retarder medium
·varnish

Using a smooth canvas will help achieve the subtle blending and layering of colors. A retarder medium can be helpful for extending the drying time of the acrylics.

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