plate no. 5961
Frutero vacio
Rufino Tamayo, 1976
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students practice layering colors to create texture and using simplified forms to represent objects. It also encourages experimentation with color relationships and creating a sense of depth through color and value.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the table, fruit bowl, and background.
- step 02
Establish the background colors (red and yellow) with broad strokes.
- step 03
Layer different shades of yellow and brown to create texture on the wall behind the table.
- step 04
Paint the table with a base of white, then add gray and brown for shadows and highlights.
- step 05
Paint the fruit bowl with a similar technique, focusing on its simple form.
- step 06
Add small dark spots to the yellow background to create a sense of depth and texture.
- step 07
Refine the edges of the shapes and add any final details.
- step 08
Allow to dry and add a varnish for protection.
color palette
primary · red · yellow · white
secondary · brown · gray · black
Mix different shades of yellow with brown and white to create the textured wall. Use white and gray to create the off-white color of the table and fruit bowl. Mix red with a touch of brown to create the darker shades in the background.
techniques
- ·dry brushing
- ·layering
- ·scumbling
- ·simplified forms
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the texture, resulting in a muddy appearance.
- →Failing to establish a clear value structure, making the painting look flat.
- →Getting the proportions of the table and fruit bowl wrong.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing, resulting in a lack of depth.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·mineral spirits or turpentine (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·rags
Use a canvas with a medium texture to help create the desired effect. Acrylic paints are easier to clean up, but oil paints offer richer colors and blending capabilities.
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