plate no. 3900
People burning themselves
Grigoriy Myasoyedov, 1884
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting complex scenes with many figures and mastering dramatic lighting effects. It also provides practice in creating atmospheric perspective and conveying emotion through color and brushwork.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
5
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and placement of figures.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and values using thin washes of color.
- step 03
Focus on establishing the light source (the fire) and its effect on the surrounding figures and environment.
- step 04
Gradually build up the details, working from general to specific.
- step 05
Pay close attention to the tonal variations within the dark areas to create depth and form.
- step 06
Use broken brushstrokes to suggest texture and movement.
- step 07
Refine the details of the figures, paying attention to their gestures and expressions.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the drama and realism of the scene.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black
secondary · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue
Achieve the dark, muted tones by mixing burnt umber and ivory black. Use small amounts of cadmium yellow and alizarin crimson to create the warm glow of the fire. Mix ultramarine blue with burnt umber to create cool shadows.
techniques
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·broken color
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Creating flat, lifeless shadows.
- →Losing the sense of atmosphere and depth.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints (burnt umber, raw sienna, ivory black, cadmium yellow, alizarin crimson, ultramarine blue)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·retouch varnish
- ·painting medium
Use a medium-grit canvas to allow for texture. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.
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