plate no. 0277

Le Labyrinthe

Mimi Parent, 1980

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingfigurearchitecturelandscapedoorsurrealshadows

experienced study

This painting offers a chance to practice rendering textures and creating a dreamlike atmosphere through soft blending and subtle color variations. Students can also explore perspective and spatial relationships in a surreal context.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the major shapes and perspective lines.
step 02
Establish the background landscape with thin washes of color, focusing on atmospheric perspective.
step 03
Block in the basic forms of the architectural elements, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
step 04
Start rendering the figure, focusing on the drapery and the fall of light and shadow.
step 05
Add details to the door and other architectural features, building up texture and depth.
step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and drama.
step 07
Add the fine details like the strings and small objects on the floor.
step 08
Glaze with thin layers to unify the colors and create a subtle, dreamlike effect.

color palette

primary · gray · brown · red · white

secondary · blue · green · ochre

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors. Use white to lighten values and create subtle gradations. Experiment with glazing to create depth and luminosity.

techniques