plate no. 1855
Creation with astral rays
Remedios Varo, 1955
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering textures, creating atmospheric perspective, and painting detailed figures and objects within a surreal environment. It also encourages careful observation and precise brushwork.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 25 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the figure, mountains, flower, and apparatus.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall tonal values.
- step 03
Begin to develop the texture of the mountains using layering and dry brush techniques.
- step 04
Refine the figure, paying attention to the details of the clothing and facial features.
- step 05
Paint the apparatus, focusing on the reflections and highlights on the glass and metal.
- step 06
Add details to the flower, including the petals, stem, and leaves.
- step 07
Refine the background and foreground, adding details to create depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall realism and surrealism.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white
secondary · ultramarine blue · alizarin crimson
Achieve the golden hues of the mountains by mixing burnt umber, yellow ochre, and white. Use ultramarine blue and alizarin crimson to create subtle shadows and variations in the sky and figure's clothing.
techniques
- ·dry brush
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·fine detail brushwork
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the textures, resulting in a muddy appearance.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Inaccurately rendering the proportions of the figure and objects.
- →Ignoring the subtle color variations in the landscape.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
- ·linseed oil
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes (small round, flat)
- ·palette knife
- ·soft cloths
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
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