plate no. 6395

Going to Work

oil, canvasRealismgenre paintingfiguresfarmersfieldskyruralpitchfork

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice depicting figures in a landscape and creating a sense of depth through color and value. It also allows for exploration of loose brushwork and implied detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures.
step 02
Establish the background with a thin wash of muted greens and yellows.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures with darker values, paying attention to the light source.
step 04
Begin to build up the forms with layers of color, using thicker paint and visible brushstrokes.
step 05
Add details to the faces and clothing, but avoid overworking them.
step 06
Refine the shadows and highlights to create a sense of depth.
step 07
Add the pitchfork and other small details.
step 08
Adjust the overall color balance and add any final touches.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · Prussian blue

secondary · titanium white · raw sienna · sap green

Mix muted greens by combining yellow ochre, Prussian blue, and a touch of burnt umber. Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and titanium white.

techniques