plate no. 4647
La Catastrophe
Theophile Steinlen, 1907
some experience helpful
This artwork is great for practicing tonal values and creating depth using a limited palette. Students can learn to suggest details with expressive linework and shading.
technical profile
palette complexity
1
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the figures.
- step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the composition, particularly in the background and shadows.
- step 03
Begin adding mid-tones to the figures in the foreground, defining their forms.
- step 04
Use hatching and cross-hatching to build up the tonal values and create texture.
- step 05
Pay attention to the direction of the light and how it affects the forms.
- step 06
Refine the details of the faces and clothing, adding subtle variations in tone.
- step 07
Add final touches to enhance the contrast and create a sense of depth.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the artwork.
color palette
primary · sepia · ivory black
secondary · raw umber
Vary the intensity of the sepia by diluting it with water or mixing it with small amounts of black to create darker tones.
techniques
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·dry brush
- ·tonal shading
- ·expressive linework
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the spontaneity of the drawing.
- →Failing to establish a strong tonal range, resulting in a flat and lifeless image.
- →Ignoring the direction of the light and creating inconsistent shadows.
- →Not simplifying the background and creating unnecessary distractions.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 90lb
required
- ·sepia ink or watercolor
- ·ivory black ink or watercolor
- ·watercolor paper 90lb
- ·round brush #4
- ·round brush #0
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
optional
- ·ruler
- ·kneaded eraser
- ·drawing board
Use a slightly textured paper to enhance the dry brush effect. Experiment with different dilutions of the ink to achieve a wide range of tonal values.
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