plate no. 7007

Mariner reading on pink background

oilNew Realismgenre paintingfiguresailorbooktableglasshat

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice portraiture and rendering of fabric folds, as well as capturing subtle light and shadow variations on skin and objects. Students can also learn to create a sense of depth through careful observation of color and value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and objects.
step 02
Establish the background color with a thin wash.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure and objects with simplified colors.
step 04
Begin refining the skin tones, paying attention to highlights and shadows.
step 05
Develop the details of the sailor's uniform, including the stripes and folds.
step 06
Add details to the book, glass, and other objects on the table.
step 07
Refine the overall composition, adjusting values and colors as needed.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black

Mix various shades of skin tones using white, red, yellow ochre, and a touch of blue. Create the pink background by mixing white and red with a hint of brown.

techniques