Paddy's Clothes Market, Sandgate

surface prep

The canvas should be primed to accept oil paint. While specific priming recipes for Hedley are not detailed in the sources, traditional oil painting practice involves preparing a stable ground to ensure the paint film remains strong and does not crack or peel (Source 3).

underdrawing

Begin by sketching the subject onto the canvas using charcoal or thinned paint, as is traditional in oil painting techniques (Source 3). Given Hedley’s emphasis on being a 'sound craftsman' and his realist style, the drawing should be accurate but not overly rigid, allowing for the expressive capacity of the medium (Source 1, Source 7).

underpainting

Consider using a monochrome underpainting (grisaille) to establish values before applying color. This technique involves extracting red and yellow colors to translate what would be left in nature, creating a foundation for glazing and scumbling later (Source 8). This method was practiced by old masters and can help manage the complexity of the scene (Source 8).

Fat over lean

Each additional layer of paint should contain more oil than the layer below to allow proper drying and prevent cracking.

Glazing and Scumbling

Glazing involves applying transparent coats of color, while scumbling uses semi-opaque paint to allow the underlying layer to show through, creating depth and texture.

Monochrome Underpainting

Establishing values and forms in a single color before applying color helps manage complexity and ensures accurate light and shadow.