plate no. 8962

Lamplight

Victor Pasmore, 1941

oil, canvasPost-Impressionisminteriorinteriorlampfiguretablestill lifebooks

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing light and shadow, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages experimentation with loose brushwork and color mixing to create atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the lamp, figures, and table.
step 02
Establish the dark background using a mix of dark greens and browns.
step 03
Block in the main light source (the lamp) with a light yellow or cream color, gradually building up the highlights.
step 04
Add the mid-tones and shadows to the figures and objects on the table, using a limited palette of greens, browns, and yellows.
step 05
Use loose brushstrokes to create texture and suggest details, avoiding hard edges.
step 06
Refine the highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Add small details like the flowers and the book.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · sap green

secondary · titanium white · cadmium yellow light · alizarin crimson

Achieve the muted greens by mixing yellow ochre, sap green, and a touch of burnt umber. Create the warm highlights by mixing titanium white with cadmium yellow light and a hint of alizarin crimson.

techniques