plate no. 0038
Circe
Rupert Bunny, 1921
some experience helpful
This painting offers practice in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as capturing the human form in a stylized manner. Students can develop their understanding of color relationships and composition through this piece.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and figures, focusing on proportions and placement.
- step 02
Establish the background colors, starting with the sky and foliage.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the architecture and figures, using simplified shapes.
- step 04
Begin layering colors to create depth and texture in the foliage and architecture.
- step 05
Refine the details of the figures, paying attention to the folds of the clothing and facial features.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create dimension and form.
- step 07
Incorporate small details and patterns to enhance the overall composition.
- step 08
Review and adjust the colors and values to achieve a cohesive and balanced final piece.
color palette
primary · blue · red · green · yellow
secondary · purple · orange · pink
Achieve muted tones by mixing complementary colors. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·cross-hatching
- ·color layering
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
- ·linear perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early.
- →Creating muddy colors by over-mixing.
- →Ignoring the overall composition and balance.
- →Not establishing a clear focal point.
- →Getting proportions wrong in the figures.
materials
surface · Drawing paper
required
- ·Colored pencils
- ·Drawing paper
- ·Eraser
- ·Pencil sharpener
- ·Sketchbook
- ·Blending stumps
optional
- ·Fixative spray
- ·Palette for mixing colors
- ·Ruler
Experiment with different brands of colored pencils to find the ones that best suit your style. Use a light touch when layering colors to avoid damaging the paper.
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