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home·artworks·Old French Fairy Tales. She Threw Her Arms Around the Neck of Bonne-biche
Old French Fairy Tales. She Threw Her Arms Around the Neck of Bonne-biche by Virginia Frances Sterrett

plate no. 8583

Old French Fairy Tales. She Threw Her Arms Around the Neck of Bonne-biche

Virginia Frances Sterrett

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)illustrationfiguredeercatinteriorpatternwindows
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering figures and animals with simplified forms, as well as creating intricate patterns and decorative elements.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, deer, and cat.

  2. step 02

    Block in the large areas of color, such as the background, the red panel, and the floor.

  3. step 03

    Add details to the figure and deer, including the facial features and the folds in the dress.

  4. step 04

    Create the patterns on the red panel and the floor, using a fine brush or pen.

  5. step 05

    Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.

  6. step 06

    Refine the details and make any necessary adjustments.

  7. step 07

    Add final details such as the tassels and window patterns.

  8. step 08

    Outline key areas with a fine liner brush to enhance definition.

color palette

primary · red · blue · gold · black

secondary · gray · purple · white

Mix shades of blue by adding white or gray to a base blue. Create the red panel color by mixing red with a touch of brown or orange for warmth.

techniques

  • ·flat washes
  • ·pattern creation
  • ·figure drawing
  • ·color blocking
  • ·fine line work

common pitfalls

  • →Overcomplicating the patterns
  • →Incorrect proportions of the figures
  • →Uneven color application
  • →Losing the overall composition in the details

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

  • ·watercolor paints or gouache
  • ·watercolor paper
  • ·fine liner brushes
  • ·round brushes
  • ·palette
  • ·water container

optional

  • ·ruler
  • ·compass
  • ·masking fluid
  • ·colored pencils

Using high-quality watercolor paper will help prevent buckling and allow for smoother color application. A variety of brush sizes will be useful for creating both large areas of color and fine details.

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