plate no. 2211

Les Poètes Du Parnasse

oilImpressionismgenre paintingfigurestreesgroup portraitlandscapemeetinggarden

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition with multiple subjects, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in rendering subtle variations in light and shadow on faces and clothing.

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 to establish the overall composition and placement of figures.
step 02
Block in the background foliage and landscape with broad strokes, focusing on the overall color and value.
step 03
Roughly define the shapes of the figures, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
step 04
Start adding details to the faces and clothing of the figures, working from general shapes to more specific features.
step 05
Refine the lighting and shadows on the figures to create a sense of depth and volume.
step 06
Add details to the table and other objects in the foreground.
step 07
Adjust the colors and values throughout the painting to create a harmonious overall effect.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to bring the painting to life.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · burnt sienna · sap green · cadmium yellow light

Mix blacks and umbers with small amounts of yellow ochre and white to create the muted tones for the figures' clothing. Use sap green and cadmium yellow to create the variations in the foliage.

techniques