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home·artworks·Clytemnestra
Clytemnestra by John Collier

plate no. 3068

Clytemnestra

John Collier, 1882

oilNeoclassicismmythological paintingfiguredoorcurtainaxemythologydress
experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure painting, drapery rendering, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in capturing subtle color variations and creating realistic textures.

technical profile

palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions of the figure, door, and curtain.

  2. step 02

    Block in the main shapes and colors using thin washes of paint.

  3. step 03

    Develop the values and refine the forms of the figure, paying attention to the light and shadow.

  4. step 04

    Work on the details of the drapery, capturing the folds and textures of the fabric.

  5. step 05

    Paint the door and surrounding architectural elements, focusing on the details and textures.

  6. step 06

    Add the curtain, paying attention to the patterns and folds.

  7. step 07

    Refine the details and add highlights to create a sense of realism.

  8. step 08

    Glaze the painting to unify the colors and create a sense of depth.

color palette

primary · ivory black · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, ivory black, and titanium white. Add small amounts of cadmium red and yellow ochre to create warmer tones for the skin and drapery.

techniques

  • ·glazing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·underpainting
  • ·chiaroscuro
  • ·drapery rendering

common pitfalls

  • →Incorrect proportions of the figure.
  • →Overworking the details too early in the painting process.
  • →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
  • →Inaccurate color mixing, resulting in muddy or unnatural tones.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·ivory black oil paint
  • ·burnt umber oil paint
  • ·raw sienna oil paint
  • ·titanium white oil paint
  • ·cadmium red oil paint
  • ·yellow ochre oil paint
  • ·assorted brushes (round and flat)

optional

  • ·palette knife
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·turpentine
  • ·medium gloss

Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a medium to thin the paint and improve blending.

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