plate no. 5211

Prayers at the Tree of Life

Israel Tsvaygenbaum, 2012

oilMagic Realismsymbolic paintingfigurestreeslandscapeskyeyebuildings

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing, layering, and creating depth through color and value. Students will also practice painting figures in a stylized manner and creating a surreal atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the figures, the tree-like structure, and the background landscape.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the sky, ground, and the central tree/face element.
step 03
Begin layering colors on the tree-like structure, using a variety of hues to create a rainbow effect.
step 04
Add details to the figures, focusing on their posture and clothing.
step 05
Refine the background landscape, adding details to the buildings and the figure in the distance.
step 06
Work on the eye within the tree/face, paying attention to its shape and color.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to the entire painting, adjusting colors and values as needed.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect it and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · yellow · red · blue · brown

secondary · green · orange · purple

Achieve the rainbow effect in the tree by mixing primary and secondary colors. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Mix browns from complementary colors.

techniques