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Pastoral by Tarsila do Amaral

plate no. 9600

Pastoral

Tarsila do Amaral

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)portraitfiguresplantsflowersportraitgardenbench
suitable for beginners

This painting offers practice in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive image. Students will learn to create depth through layering and color variation within a flat, stylized aesthetic.

technical profile

palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, bench, and major plant groupings.

  2. step 02

    Block in the background sky with a light blue, keeping it even and flat.

  3. step 03

    Paint the larger areas of color for the figures' clothing and the man's suit, focusing on accurate shapes.

  4. step 04

    Add the darker greens of the foliage, using simple, elongated shapes for the leaves.

  5. step 05

    Paint the pink flowers, varying the shades slightly to create depth and interest.

  6. step 06

    Add details to the figures' faces and hands, using small brushes for precision.

  7. step 07

    Paint the potted plants in the foreground, adding details to the pots and flowers.

  8. step 08

    Refine the details, adjusting colors and shapes as needed to match the original painting.

color palette

primary · light blue · dark green · pink · brown

secondary · yellow · orange · white · black

Mix various shades of pink by adding white to a base pink. Create darker greens by mixing blue and yellow with a touch of black. Achieve the brown of the suit by mixing red, yellow, and a touch of blue.

techniques

  • ·flat color application
  • ·layering
  • ·simplification of forms
  • ·color mixing
  • ·contouring

common pitfalls

  • →Overcomplicating the shapes of the leaves and flowers.
  • →Using too many colors and creating a muddy effect.
  • →Failing to simplify the details of the figures' faces.
  • →Not achieving a flat, even application of color.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·Stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
  • ·Acrylic paints (light blue, dark green, pink, brown, yellow, white, black)
  • ·Round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
  • ·Flat brush (size 8)
  • ·Palette
  • ·Water container
  • ·Paper towels
  • ·Pencil

optional

  • ·Palette knife
  • ·Easel
  • ·Ruler

Acrylic paints are recommended for their quick drying time and ease of use. Choose good quality brushes for better control and smoother application.

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