plate no. 6111
Interior of Courtyard, Strandgade 30
Vilhelm Hammershøi, 1899
some experience helpful
This painting helps students develop skills in rendering subtle tonal variations and understanding atmospheric perspective. Recreating the windows will improve precision and understanding of geometric shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic architectural structure and window placements, paying attention to perspective.
- step 02
Establish the darkest areas of shadow to create a value structure.
- step 03
Block in the main wall colors, focusing on the subtle shifts in tone.
- step 04
Begin refining the window details, including the frames and the light coming through the glass.
- step 05
Develop the subtle color variations in the walls, blending carefully.
- step 06
Add the details of the open window, paying attention to the light and shadow.
- step 07
Refine the edges and details throughout the painting.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the depth and realism.
color palette
primary · gray · beige · brown · white
secondary · blue-gray · olive green
Achieve the muted tones by mixing white with small amounts of brown, gray, and blue. Use thin glazes to build up color depth.
techniques
- ·tonal painting
- ·glazing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·geometric shapes
common pitfalls
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure early on.
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall atmospheric effect.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Inaccurate perspective in the architectural elements.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints (gray, beige, brown, white, blue)
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a smooth canvas to allow for subtle blending. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a mid-tone base.
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