plate no. 2201

Midday Rest

oilRealismgenre paintingtreesfiguresanimalslandscapefoliageriver

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering realistic figures and animals within a complex landscape, and understanding how light interacts with foliage to create depth and atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes: the tree, figures, animals, and landscape elements.
step 02
Establish the basic color blocks for the sky, water, and large areas of foliage.
step 03
Start building up the values in the tree trunk and branches, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Block in the colors for the figures and animals, focusing on accurate proportions and anatomical details.
step 05
Develop the foliage by layering different shades of green and brown, creating a sense of depth and texture.
step 06
Add details to the figures and animals, such as facial features, fur, and clothing.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows throughout the painting to create a sense of realism.
step 08
Add final details, such as small leaves, blades of grass, and reflections in the water.

color palette

primary · sap green · burnt umber · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · raw sienna

Mix greens by combining sap green with yellow ochre or ultramarine blue for variations. Create browns by mixing burnt umber with yellow ochre or cadmium red. Use white to lighten values and create highlights.

techniques