plate no. 2535
Painter and his Model
Balthus, 1981
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting figures in an interior space and understanding subtle color variations to create a muted, atmospheric effect. Students will also learn to create a sense of depth through careful value control.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and key objects.
- step 02
Establish the background color with a thin wash of muted beige.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures and furniture using simplified forms.
- step 04
Begin layering colors to define the light and shadow on the figures and objects.
- step 05
Pay attention to the subtle color shifts in the walls and floor to create depth.
- step 06
Refine the details of the faces and clothing, keeping the brushstrokes soft and blended.
- step 07
Add the details of the table, window, and other background elements.
- step 08
Adjust the overall values and colors to achieve a harmonious and balanced composition.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · titanium white
secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna
Mix muted tones by combining primary colors with raw umber and white. Use ultramarine blue and burnt sienna to create grays and shadows.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·soft blending
- ·value study
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →overworking the details
- →using colors that are too bright
- →losing the overall sense of atmosphere
- →incorrect proportions of figures
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·burnt sienna oil paint
- ·linseed oil
- ·round brushes
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
Use a fine-weave canvas for smoother blending. Tempera is the original medium, but oil paint is more approachable for beginners.
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