plate no. 5627
Multiplicare II
Gil Nicolescu, 1977
suitable for beginners
Recreating this painting will help students understand simplified forms and color blocking to create depth and shadow. It's also a good exercise in observing and replicating subtle color variations within a limited palette.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas, focusing on proportions and placement.
- step 02
Block in the background colors first, establishing the overall tone.
- step 03
Begin painting the darkest values of the 'figures' on the left, gradually working towards the lighter yellows.
- step 04
Paint the tabletop and the objects on it, paying attention to the cast shadows.
- step 05
Mix and apply the subtle color variations within each object to create form.
- step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes, ensuring clean lines and accurate representation.
- step 07
Add any final details or adjustments to the colors and values.
- step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · titanium white
secondary · sap green · burnt sienna
Achieve the various yellows by mixing yellow ochre with varying amounts of white. Create the darker browns by adding raw umber to yellow ochre. Use white to create highlights and lighter tones.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·value studies
- ·hard edge painting
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Over-blending the colors, losing the distinct shapes.
- →Not accurately capturing the subtle value changes.
- →Ignoring the cast shadows, which are crucial for creating depth.
- →Getting the proportions of the objects wrong in the initial sketch.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (12x12 or similar)
- ·Oil paints: yellow ochre, raw umber, titanium white, sap green, burnt sienna
- ·Palette
- ·Assorted flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·Odorless mineral spirits
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Palette knife
- ·Rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use good quality oil paints for best results. A smooth canvas surface will make it easier to achieve clean lines.
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