plate no. 5566
In the Street
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing figures in motion and simplifying complex scenes using expressive brushstrokes. It also encourages the use of a limited palette to create a cohesive and atmospheric effect.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figures, focusing on their overall proportions and gestures.
- step 02
Establish the background with loose, broad strokes of muted browns and grays, suggesting the urban environment.
- step 03
Begin blocking in the main figures with darker tones, paying attention to the folds and shadows in their clothing.
- step 04
Gradually build up the highlights on the figures' clothing and faces, using lighter shades of the dominant colors.
- step 05
Add details to the figures, such as hats, shawls, and other accessories, using small, deliberate brushstrokes.
- step 06
Refine the background details, adding hints of buildings and other elements to create a sense of depth.
- step 07
Use a dry brush technique to add texture and create a sense of movement throughout the painting.
- step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall composition and create a sense of atmosphere.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white
secondary · ivory black · cadmium red light
Achieve the various shades of brown and gray by mixing burnt umber and raw sienna with varying amounts of white and black. Use small amounts of cadmium red to add warmth to certain areas.
techniques
- ·dry brush
- ·scumbling
- ·alla prima
- ·limited palette
- ·expressive brushwork
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the spontaneity of the original painting.
- →Using too many colors and creating a muddy or chaotic effect.
- →Failing to capture the sense of movement and energy in the figures.
- →Not paying attention to the overall composition and creating a disjointed or unbalanced image.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·cadmium red light oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
Use a canvas with a smooth surface to allow for easier blending and application of the paint. Consider toning the canvas with a thin wash of burnt umber before starting to create a warm undertone.
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