plate no. 1715
El Barco Medieval- El fresco, Emil Grigoras
Emil Grigoras, 2008
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in line drawing, creating a limited color palette, and understanding the principles of mural painting. It also encourages simplification of forms and stylized representation.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the boat, figures, and waves.
- step 02
Define the major shapes of the boat, sails, and figures with simple outlines.
- step 03
Apply a base layer of diluted raw umber or similar earth tone to the entire painting surface.
- step 04
Begin adding darker values to define the forms of the boat, figures, and waves, using thin washes.
- step 05
Introduce the primary colors (ochre, burnt sienna) to the boat and figures, building up layers of color.
- step 06
Use a fine brush to add details such as lines, patterns, and facial features.
- step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 08
Add final details to the waves and background to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · raw umber · yellow ochre · burnt sienna
secondary · ivory black · titanium white
Mix raw umber with white for the background and lighter areas of the waves. Combine yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the boat and figures. Use black sparingly to create shadows and define outlines.
techniques
- ·underpainting
- ·glazing
- ·dry brushing
- ·line drawing
- ·grisaille
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Using too much color and losing the muted, fresco-like effect.
- →Not establishing a strong value structure before adding color.
- →Making the outlines too heavy or dominant.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas or wood panel
- ·Acrylic or tempera paints
- ·Round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·Flat brush (size 1/2 inch)
- ·Palette
- ·Water container
- ·Soft cloth or paper towels
- ·Pencil and eraser
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Retarder medium
- ·Varnish
Using a gessoed surface will help the paint adhere properly. Consider using a textured surface to mimic the look of a fresco.
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