plate no. 1312

Ophelia

canvas, oilRomanticismportraitfigureforestwatertreesportraitfoliage

experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering fabric folds, as well as creating atmospheric perspective in a landscape setting.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the major elements of the background.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar earth tone.
step 03
Begin blocking in the main colors, starting with the background and then moving to the figure.
step 04
Develop the details of the face, paying close attention to the light and shadow to create form.
step 05
Refine the folds and drapery of the clothing, using subtle color variations to create depth.
step 06
Add details to the surrounding foliage and water, using a variety of brushstrokes to create texture.
step 07
Glaze thin layers of color to adjust values and create a sense of atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · raw umber · burnt sienna · ivory black

secondary · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson · viridian

Achieve the subtle flesh tones by mixing titanium white, raw umber, and a touch of alizarin crimson. Create the muted greens of the foliage by mixing viridian with raw umber and a touch of yellow.

techniques