plate no. 6174
In the Forest
Arkady Rylov, 1905
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the horse, figure, and the overall arrangement of the trees.
- step 02
Establish the background by painting the distant trees with lighter, cooler tones to create depth.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the horse and foal with broad strokes, paying attention to their proportions and anatomy.
- step 04
Begin layering the foliage and ground cover, using a variety of greens and browns to create texture and depth.
- step 05
Add details to the trees, including the characteristic markings of the birch bark.
- step 06
Refine the figures of the horse, foal and the person, adding details to their forms and clothing.
- step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of light and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final details, such as small flowers and highlights, to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · titanium white · viridian green · raw umber
secondary · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue
Achieve the subtle greens by mixing viridian green with cadmium yellow and titanium white. Create the browns by mixing raw umber with alizarin crimson and ultramarine blue.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·scumbling
- ·broken color
- ·alla prima
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
- →Losing the sense of depth and atmosphere.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A medium-sized canvas (e.g., 16x20 inches) is recommended.
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