plate no. 0360

Illustration to the 'Kobzar' by Taras Shevchenko

Vasyl Sedlyar, 1933

oilExpressionismillustrationfiguressoldiersfieldskygroupuniforms

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in linework, creating depth through overlapping shapes, and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive image. It also encourages simplification of forms and expressive mark-making.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figures, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Define the horizon line and the general areas of the sky and field.
step 03
Begin adding the darker outlines to the figures, emphasizing the folds in their clothing and their posture.
step 04
Fill in the blue areas of the uniforms, using varying pressure to create subtle tonal changes.
step 05
Add the brown/ochre tones to the field, using expressive brushstrokes to suggest texture and depth.
step 06
Refine the linework, adding details to the faces and uniforms of the figures in the foreground.
step 07
Add the dark lines in the sky area.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the contrast and visual interest.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Ochre · White

secondary · Black

Mix the blue with white to create lighter shades for the uniforms. Use ochre straight from the tube or mix with a touch of black to darken it for the field.

techniques