plate no. 9316
Charity of Saint Elladius of Toledo
Francisco Bayeu y Subias, 1770
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition, and creating atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to mix subtle color variations to create realistic skin tones and drapery.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of figures and architectural elements.
- step 02
Establish the background sky and distant buildings with thin washes of color.
- step 03
Block in the main figures with simplified shapes and values.
- step 04
Refine the figures, adding details to faces, clothing, and hands.
- step 05
Develop the architectural elements, paying attention to light and shadow.
- step 06
Add details to the foreground figures and ground plane.
- step 07
Adjust the overall color harmony and value relationships.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to create a sense of realism.
color palette
primary · ochre · burnt umber · titanium white · cadmium red
secondary · ultramarine blue · viridian green · raw sienna
Mix various shades of ochre and burnt umber with white to create the skin tones and architectural elements. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky, and mix viridian green with ochre for the foliage.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·figure drawing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated or unrealistic.
- →Ignoring the importance of atmospheric perspective.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·turpentine
- ·linseed oil
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·retouch varnish
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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