plate no. 7252

Disturbing presence

Remedios Varo, 1959

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingfigurechairtableinteriorrootsdoorways

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering textures, creating subtle color variations, and understanding surrealist composition. It also offers practice in depicting figures and interior spaces with a dreamlike quality.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, chair, table, and doorways.
step 02
Establish the background color using a muted blue-green, building up layers of texture.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, chair, and table with base colors.
step 04
Develop the details of the figure's clothing and hair, paying attention to the subtle highlights and shadows.
step 05
Paint the chair, focusing on the intricate patterns and textures.
step 06
Render the table and the objects on it, capturing the wood grain and the texture of the materials.
step 07
Add the roots and other surreal elements, using thin lines and delicate brushstrokes.
step 08
Refine the overall painting, adjusting colors and values to create a cohesive and dreamlike atmosphere.

color palette

primary · ochre · blue-green · burnt umber

secondary · ivory · sienna · grey

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white or grey. Use thin glazes to build up depth and create subtle color variations.

techniques