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home·artworks·Disbanded
Disbanded by John Pettie

plate no. 4847

Disbanded

John Pettie

oilRomanticismportraitfigureportraitkiltlandscapeweaponbag
experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting human anatomy with dynamic poses and rendering textures of different materials like fabric and metal using visible brushstrokes.

technical profile

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

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Create a rough sketch of the figure's pose and proportions, paying attention to the angle and weight distribution.

  2. step 02

    Block in the main shapes of the figure, background, and large details like the bag and kilt using thin washes of color.

  3. step 03

    Establish the light and shadow patterns on the figure and background, focusing on the overall value structure.

  4. step 04

    Begin adding details to the face, clothing, and equipment, gradually refining the forms and textures.

  5. step 05

    Develop the background with loose, expressive brushstrokes to create a sense of atmosphere and movement.

  6. step 06

    Refine the edges and details of the figure, paying attention to the transitions between light and shadow.

  7. step 07

    Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.

  8. step 08

    Step back and assess the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · titanium white

Mix burnt umber and ivory black for dark tones, raw sienna and yellow ochre for highlights. Use cadmium red sparingly for accents.

techniques

  • ·dry brushing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·chiaroscuro
  • ·alla prima
  • ·glazing

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking details too early in the process.
  • →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
  • →Using colors that are too saturated.
  • →Ignoring the importance of edges and transitions.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas 18x24
  • ·oil paints (burnt umber, raw sienna, ivory black, cadmium red, yellow ochre, titanium white)
  • ·linseed oil
  • ·turpentine
  • ·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife
  • ·rags

optional

  • ·retouch varnish
  • ·painting medium

Use a medium-grit canvas for better texture. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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