plate no. 5863
On the Terrace
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing for natural light and shadow, as well as creating depth through layering and atmospheric perspective. Students will also practice painting organic shapes and textures.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, table, and plants.
- step 02
Block in the large shapes with thin washes of color, establishing the overall value structure.
- step 03
Begin layering colors to build up the form of the figure, paying attention to the light and shadow.
- step 04
Add details to the clothing and hair, using smaller brushes and more precise strokes.
- step 05
Paint the plants and flowers, focusing on capturing their organic shapes and textures.
- step 06
Refine the background and table, adding subtle variations in color and value.
- step 07
Add final details and highlights to create a sense of realism.
- step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue · titanium white
secondary · cadmium orange · alizarin crimson · sap green
Mix various shades of green by combining ultramarine blue, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt umber. Achieve skin tones by blending yellow ochre, alizarin crimson, and titanium white, adjusting the ratios for highlights and shadows.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
- →Failing to establish a clear value structure.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in color and light.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 16x20
- ·Oil paints (yellow ochre, burnt umber, ultramarine blue, titanium white, cadmium orange, alizarin crimson, sap green)
- ·Palette
- ·Assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Odorless mineral spirits
- ·Palette knife
- ·Rags
optional
- ·Retouch varnish
- ·Painting medium
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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