plate no. 8679
Once Where We Looked to put Down
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, understanding light and shadow, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also requires careful observation of subtle color variations in skin tones and architectural details.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a rough sketch outlining the main shapes and composition, paying attention to perspective.
- step 02
Establish the darkest shadows using a dark umber or black mixed with a touch of burnt sienna.
- step 03
Block in the main areas of light, focusing on the light source and its effect on the figures and architecture.
- step 04
Begin refining the figures, paying close attention to anatomy and skin tones, using a limited palette of earth tones, white, and a touch of red.
- step 05
Develop the architectural details, focusing on the play of light and shadow on the columns and walls.
- step 06
Add details to the background elements, such as the framed portrait, using subtle color variations.
- step 07
Refine the shadows and highlights, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final touches and details, such as the reflections on the floor, to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre
secondary · burnt sienna · ivory black · cadmium red light
Mix skin tones using white, yellow ochre, burnt sienna, and a touch of red. Achieve the greenish hues in the shadows by mixing raw umber with a touch of black and yellow ochre.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·glazing
- ·underpainting
- ·figure drawing
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions in the figures
- →Overworking the details too early
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure
- →Inconsistent light source
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 18x24
- ·Oil paints: raw umber, titanium white, yellow ochre, burnt sienna, ivory black, cadmium red light
- ·Palette
- ·Assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·Linseed oil
- ·Odorless mineral spirits
- ·Palette knife
- ·Rags
optional
- ·Medium gloss
- ·Retouch varnish
- ·Easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
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