plate no. 4764
Dancers
Henryk Streng, 1930
some experience helpful
This painting is good for practicing simplified forms and color blocking. Students can learn to create a composition with distinct shapes and limited color variations.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the figures, curtains, and background.
- step 03
Refine the shapes and add details to the figures' faces and clothing.
- step 04
Add the highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 05
Paint the background elements, including the window and abstract shapes.
- step 06
Add the final details, such as the fringe on the curtains and the white circles.
- step 07
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · brown · red · white · green
secondary · blue · yellow · gray · pink
Mix browns from burnt umber and burnt sienna. Achieve the gray background by mixing white and black. Use white to lighten colors for highlights.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·simplified forms
- ·flat washes
- ·layering
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Getting the proportions wrong
- →Using too many colors
- →Not simplifying the forms enough
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·canvas 12x16
- ·acrylic paints
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#8 flat brush
- ·palette
- ·water
- ·pencil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·easel
- ·retarder medium
Acrylics are recommended for their quick drying time and ease of use. A canvas board is also suitable.
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