plate no. 0008
Interior of the Nieuwe Kerk at Haarlem
Pieter Saenredam, 1655
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in perspective, color mixing for subtle tonal variations, and rendering architectural details. It also provides practice in depicting figures within a larger space.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic architectural structure, paying close attention to perspective and proportions.
- step 02
Establish the horizon line and vanishing points.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the columns, arches, and podium.
- step 04
Mix a range of neutral tones using a limited palette of earth colors and white.
- step 05
Begin layering in the shadows and highlights to create depth and dimension.
- step 06
Add details such as the clock, window panes, and figures.
- step 07
Refine the edges and details to create a sense of realism.
- step 08
Add final glazes to unify the colors and create a soft, luminous effect.
color palette
primary · titanium white · raw umber · yellow ochre
secondary · burnt sienna · ivory black
Achieve the subtle variations in tone by mixing white with small amounts of raw umber, yellow ochre, and burnt sienna. Use ivory black sparingly to darken shadows.
techniques
- ·linear perspective
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·tonal painting
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect perspective can ruin the illusion of depth.
- →Overworking the details can make the painting look stiff and unnatural.
- →Using too much color can detract from the subtle tonal harmony.
- →Failing to establish a clear light source will make the painting look flat.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·burnt sienna oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·linseed oil
- ·#2 round brush
- ·#4 flat brush
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·odorless mineral spirits
Use a fine-weave canvas to allow for smooth blending and subtle details. Consider using a toned ground to help establish the overall color harmony.
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