plate no. 6751

Purgatorio

oilRomanticismillustrationfiguresforestwatermythical creatureslandscapenight

experienced study

This piece focuses on mastering value shading and creating depth through careful rendering of light and shadow. Students will learn to build form and texture using a limited palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, creatures, and landscape elements.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the image, such as the deep shadows in the forest and the outlines of the figures.
step 03
Gradually build up the mid-tones, paying attention to the direction of light and how it affects the forms.
step 04
Add highlights to create contrast and define the shapes of the figures, creatures, and foliage.
step 05
Focus on rendering the textures of the trees, water, and clothing using hatching and cross-hatching techniques.
step 06
Refine the details, such as the facial features of the figures and the patterns on the creatures' bodies.
step 07
Add subtle variations in tone to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the values to ensure a balanced and harmonious composition.

color palette

primary · black · white

secondary · gray

Varying shades of gray are achieved by mixing black and white in different proportions. Use thin washes for lighter tones and thicker applications for darker areas.

techniques