plate no. 9607

Poppies

Stanley Spencer, 1938

oilNeo-Romanticismlandscapeflowerstulipsgardenpathlandscapefoliage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and texture, as well as understanding how to depict complex organic forms using simplified shapes and brushstrokes. Students will also learn about pointillism and broken color techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the flower beds and the path.
step 02
Block in the main colors of the background: green for the grass, and a mix of ochre and white for the path.
step 03
Start painting the tulips, beginning with the darkest reds and oranges, then adding highlights.
step 04
Use small, individual brushstrokes to build up the color and texture of the flowers and foliage.
step 05
Pay attention to the direction of light and shadow to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Add details to the background, such as the other flower beds and the trees.
step 07
Refine the colors and values, making sure to maintain the overall harmony of the painting.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · red · orange · green · yellow

secondary · purple · brown · white

Mix various shades of red and orange by adding white, yellow, or brown. Create the greens by mixing blue and yellow, and adjust the hue by adding red or brown. Use white to create highlights and lighten the colors.

techniques