plate no. 6802

Giving Thanks

Horace Pippin, 1942

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)genre paintingfiguresinteriortablebedcabinfamily

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting figures in an interior space and understanding how to create a sense of depth using color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and furniture.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and the walls of the cabin.
step 03
Add the main colors of the figures' clothing and skin tones.
step 04
Develop the details of the furniture, including the bed, table, and chairs.
step 05
Add details to the figures, such as facial features and patterns on their clothing.
step 06
Create the patterns on the quilt and rugs, paying attention to the color variations.
step 07
Refine the details and add highlights and shadows to create depth.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust colors as needed.

color palette

primary · brown · white · blue · red

secondary · green · yellow · gray

Mix browns by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, and a touch of blue or black. Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt sienna, and white, with small amounts of red or blue for variation.

techniques