plate no. 9461
Funeral Symphony (I)
some experience helpful
This painting is great for practicing layering colors with pastels to create depth and atmosphere. Students can also learn about simplifying complex architectural forms into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the architecture and the horizon line.
- step 02
Block in the sky with light blue pastel, blending it smoothly.
- step 03
Apply the base color for the architecture using green pastel, varying the shades for depth.
- step 04
Add darker green tones to create shadows and define the forms.
- step 05
Use yellow and gold pastels to highlight the crowns and architectural details.
- step 06
Add details to the buildings seen through the arches using light blues and yellows.
- step 07
Blend the colors softly to create a hazy, dreamlike effect.
- step 08
Refine the details and add final highlights.
color palette
primary · light blue · green · yellow
secondary · dark green · gold · light yellow
Mix different shades of green by layering yellow and blue pastels. Achieve the gold tones by layering yellow and brown.
techniques
- ·layering pastels
- ·blending
- ·creating atmospheric perspective
- ·simplifying complex forms
common pitfalls
- →over-blending and losing detail
- →using too much pressure and making the colors muddy
- →not establishing a clear value structure
- →getting proportions wrong in the initial sketch
materials
surface · pastel paper
required
- ·assorted pastel sticks
- ·pastel paper
- ·kneaded eraser
- ·blending stumps
- ·fixative spray
- ·drawing board
optional
- ·tortillons
- ·chamois cloth
- ·workable fixative
Use a sanded pastel paper for better color adhesion and layering.
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