plate no. 5382

Columbines

Stanley Spencer, 1938

oilNeo-Romanticismlandscapeflowersgardenfoliagegrassplantsfence

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, and in observing and representing the subtle variations in light and shadow on organic forms. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes of the flowers, stems, and background elements, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin wash of green and brown tones, creating a base layer for the grass and foliage.
step 03
Begin layering in the darker areas of the background, adding depth and creating a sense of distance.
step 04
Start painting the flowers, focusing on the overall shapes and colors of the petals and leaves.
step 05
Add details to the flowers, such as the delicate lines and patterns on the petals, and the subtle variations in color.
step 06
Refine the stems and leaves, adding highlights and shadows to create a sense of volume.
step 07
Adjust the overall composition, making sure that the colors and values are balanced and harmonious.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · titanium white · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue

secondary · sap green · burnt umber · cadmium yellow light · dioxazine purple

Mix greens by combining yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, and a touch of burnt umber. Achieve the flower colors by mixing alizarin crimson with white for pinks, and ultramarine blue with alizarin crimson for purples. Use white to lighten and soften the colors.

techniques