plate no. 4129

Mermaid and faun

Sergey Solomko, 1904

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)mythological paintingmermaidfaunrocksseafiguresmythology

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, particularly the human form and anatomy, and in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere using color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the rocks.
step 02
Establish the background sky and sea with thin washes of blue and white.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the rocks with browns, grays, and blues, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Begin to define the figures, starting with the mermaid and then the faun, using a limited palette of flesh tones and blues.
step 05
Add details to the rocks, creating texture and depth with dry brush techniques and layering.
step 06
Refine the figures, adding details to their faces, hair, and bodies.
step 07
Add final touches, such as highlights on the rocks and figures, and subtle details in the water.
step 08
Evaluate and adjust the overall composition, ensuring that the focal points are clear and the colors are balanced.

color palette

primary · cerulean blue · raw umber · titanium white · flesh tint

secondary · burnt sienna · payne's gray · yellow ochre

Mix flesh tones by combining white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red or burnt sienna. Achieve the blue-gray tones of the rocks by mixing raw umber, payne's gray, and cerulean blue.

techniques