plate no. 7622

Leaves (Study for Portrait of Barbara)

Prudence Heward, 1933

oilExpressionismsketch and studyleavesfoliageplantsgreenstudy

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and form, and in using visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy to their work. It's a good exercise in observing subtle variations in green tones.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and placement of the leaves, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Establish the darkest background areas with a mix of dark green and brown.
step 03
Begin layering in the mid-tone greens on the leaves, paying attention to the direction of light.
step 04
Add highlights to the leaves using lighter shades of green mixed with yellow and white.
step 05
Define the veins and edges of the leaves with darker greens and browns.
step 06
Refine the shapes and values of the leaves, blending and layering as needed.
step 07
Add final details, such as small highlights and shadows, to create depth and realism.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · sap green · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · burnt umber · ivory black · cadmium yellow light

Achieve the various green tones by mixing sap green with yellow ochre and titanium white. Use burnt umber and ivory black to darken the greens for shadows and background areas. Add small amounts of cadmium yellow light for brighter highlights.

techniques