plate no. 4498

Orgoglio di Mamma

Gustavo Foppiani, 1984

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingfigureslandscapecloudsrocksmotherchild

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, color mixing for muted tones, and creating a surreal atmosphere through composition and brushwork. It also provides practice in rendering drapery and subtle gradations of light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the figures and the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using a diluted wash of neutral colors.
step 03
Develop the background, starting with the sky and clouds, using soft blending techniques.
step 04
Refine the figures, paying attention to anatomical details and the folds of the drapery.
step 05
Mix and apply the local colors to the figures and the landscape, building up layers of paint.
step 06
Add details such as the rocks and the facial features, using smaller brushes.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors to create depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create a sense of realism.

color palette

primary · gray · beige · light blue

secondary · burnt sienna · raw umber

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white or gray to subdue the intensity. Use thin glazes of color to create subtle variations and depth.

techniques