plate no. 6677
Dog and Groom
Alex Colville, 1991
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the main shapes: dog, figure, fireplace, and floor.
- step 02
Block in the main colors for each area: dog's fur, figure's clothing, brick, wall, and floor.
- step 03
Begin refining the dog's fur, using short, directional strokes to create texture.
- step 04
Develop the details of the figure, paying attention to the subtle shading on the face and hands.
- step 05
Add details to the fireplace and floor, including the brick pattern and wood grain.
- step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows throughout the painting to create depth and dimension.
- step 07
Add the final details, such as the dog's collar and tag, and the grooming brush.
- step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition and color balance.
color palette
primary · tan · brown · gray · red
secondary · white · black · dark blue · dark green
Achieve the dog's fur color by mixing tan, brown, and white, with touches of black for shadows. The gray wall is a mix of white and black, with a hint of blue or brown to adjust the tone.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
- ·rendering
- ·glazing
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the dog and figure wrong.
- →Overworking the fur texture, making it look unnatural.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and dimension.
- →Inconsistent lighting and shadows.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·Round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·Flat brushes (sizes 4, 8)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)
- ·Linseed oil (for oil paints)
optional
- ·Medium gloss
- ·Easel
- ·Color charts
- ·Reference photos
Use high-quality paints for best results. Consider using a medium to improve blending and drying time.
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