plate no. 5675

Poker Night (from a Streetcar Named Desire)

Thomas Hart Benton, 1946

oilRegionalismgenre paintingfiguresinteriortablecurtainswindowsnight

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, complex composition, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective and color temperature.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 30 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch to block in the main shapes and figures, paying attention to proportions and placement.
step 02
Establish the background with broad strokes, focusing on the color variations in the walls and the night sky visible through the windows.
step 03
Block in the figures with basic skin tones and clothing colors, paying attention to the light source and shadows.
step 04
Refine the details of the faces and hands, adding subtle highlights and shadows to create form.
step 05
Develop the drapery and furniture, focusing on the folds and textures.
step 06
Add details to the poker table and accessories, such as cards, chips, and bottles.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to create a cohesive and atmospheric painting.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to enhance the realism and depth of the painting.

color palette

primary · flesh tones (various) · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · titanium white

Achieve the skin tones by mixing red, yellow, and brown with white, adjusting the proportions to create different shades. Use ultramarine blue and white for the cool tones in the night sky and the woman's dress. Mix viridian green and yellow ochre for the green lamp and chair.

techniques