plate no. 8049
Nehru and Gandhi
William H. Johnson, 1945
some experience helpful
This painting helps students practice simplified figure drawing and color mixing to achieve a folk art style. It also encourages experimentation with pattern and texture using visible brushstrokes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of figures and objects.
- step 02
Block in the background color with a diluted wash.
- step 03
Establish the main color blocks for the figures, carpet, and other elements.
- step 04
Add details to the figures, such as facial features and clothing.
- step 05
Create the checkered pattern on the carpet, varying the colors and values.
- step 06
Paint the stars, moon, and sun in the background.
- step 07
Refine the details and add texture with visible brushstrokes.
- step 08
Add a dark border around the painting.
color palette
primary · brown · light blue · yellow · purple
secondary · orange · red · green
Mix browns from burnt umber and burnt sienna. Achieve the light blue by mixing ultramarine blue with titanium white. The purple background is a mix of red and blue with white.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·simplified shapes
- ·visible brushstrokes
- ·pattern creation
- ·color blocking
common pitfalls
- →over-blending colors
- →getting bogged down in details
- →uneven pattern application
- →incorrect proportions
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·acrylic paints
- ·canvas or painting panel
- ·assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·pencil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retarder medium
- ·varnish
Use a limited palette to simplify color mixing. Consider using acrylics for faster drying time.
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