plate no. 2684
Denouncement of Cao Cao
Ding Yanyong, 1977
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and capturing dynamic poses with minimal detail. It also introduces the concept of using washes to create depth and form.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and positions of the figures and the drum.
- step 02
Apply a diluted wash of red to the figure on the left, defining the robe and facial features.
- step 03
Use a thicker consistency of red for darker areas and outlines on the figure's robe and face.
- step 04
Add black ink for the hat, sword, and outlines, varying the pressure for thicker and thinner lines.
- step 05
Paint the drum with a yellow wash, adding brown for the sides and base.
- step 06
Use diluted black ink to define the features of the figure on the right, focusing on expressive lines for the face and body.
- step 07
Add details like the beard, eyes, and mouth with small, controlled brushstrokes.
- step 08
Add the calligraphy and seal with a fine brush and black ink.
color palette
primary · red · black · yellow
secondary · brown · white (of the paper)
Use water to dilute the red and black inks to create washes of varying intensity. Mix brown from red and black.
techniques
- ·ink wash
- ·dry brush
- ·line drawing
- ·expressive brushwork
- ·dilution
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the spontaneity of the original.
- →Using too much water and creating muddy colors.
- →Not varying the pressure on the brush, resulting in flat, lifeless lines.
- →Failing to capture the dynamic poses of the figures.
materials
surface · Chinese painting paper (rice paper or similar)
required
- ·Chinese painting brushes (various sizes)
- ·Chinese ink stick or bottled ink
- ·Chinese painting paper (rice paper or similar)
- ·Water container
- ·Palette or small dishes for mixing ink
- ·Red ink or watercolor
- ·Yellow watercolor or ink
optional
- ·felt mat
- ·paperweights
Experiment with different types of Chinese painting paper to find one that suits your style. Use good quality ink for best results.
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