plate no. 4707
In the shade of the tree
Soltan Soltanlı, 2018
some experience helpful
This painting provides an opportunity to practice layering colors and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. Students can also learn about composition and creating a sense of depth.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to the placement of the figures, trees, and sheep.
- step 02
Apply a thin underpainting of yellow ochre or raw umber to the entire canvas.
- step 03
Block in the large areas of color: sky, grass, trees, and tent.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the figures, including clothing and facial features.
- step 05
Paint the sheep, using small brushstrokes to create texture and variation.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 07
Refine the details and add any final touches.
- step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely and then varnish.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · sap green · yellow ochre
secondary · burnt sienna · titanium white · cadmium red
Mix greens by combining yellow ochre and cerulean blue. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Add burnt sienna to greens and yellows to create earth tones.
techniques
- ·dry brush texture
- ·layering
- ·color mixing
- ·scumbling
- ·impasto
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details, especially in the sheep.
- →Using too much paint, which can result in a muddy appearance.
- →Not paying attention to the values, which can flatten the image.
- →Ignoring the importance of color mixing.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·mineral spirits or turpentine (for cleaning brushes)
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·rags
Use good quality paints for best results. Consider using a medium to thin the paint and improve flow.
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