plate no. 5437
Lively market at the Porta Capuana
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the basic composition and perspective.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color.
- step 03
Establish the light source and begin to build up the highlights and shadows.
- step 04
Focus on the figures in the foreground, adding more detail and definition.
- step 05
Use looser brushstrokes and less detail for the figures in the background to create depth.
- step 06
Pay attention to the color temperature and use warm colors for the areas in sunlight and cool colors for the shadows.
- step 07
Add details such as the fish, architectural elements, and clothing.
- step 08
Refine the overall composition and adjust the values and colors as needed.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre · burnt sienna
secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red light · sap green
Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining raw umber, white, and small amounts of blue or red. Use yellow ochre and white to create highlights. Mix blue and red for the woman's shawl.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·alla prima
- ·implied detail
common pitfalls
- →Getting bogged down in details too early.
- →Not establishing a clear light source.
- →Overworking the painting and losing the freshness of the brushstrokes.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
- ·easel
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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