plate no. 4747

Plant architecture

Remedios Varo, 1962

oilSurrealismsymbolic paintingarchitecturefigurestreescatarchesfantasy

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering complex textures and understanding surrealist composition. It also encourages careful observation of light and shadow to create depth and form.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a preliminary sketch to map out the composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and architectural elements.
step 02
Establish the basic values by blocking in the dark and light areas of the trees and arches.
step 03
Begin layering the textures of the tree bark using a combination of dry brushing and scumbling techniques.
step 04
Paint the figures, paying close attention to the folds of their clothing and the details of their faces.
step 05
Add the architectural details, such as the stairs and the bell, using precise brushstrokes.
step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add the final details, such as the cat's eyes and the patterns on the clothing.
step 08
Glaze to unify the painting and adjust the colors as needed.

color palette

primary · raw umber · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

Achieve the muted tones by mixing the primary colors with small amounts of secondary colors. Use white to lighten the values and black to darken them.

techniques