plate no. 9458
Pylon I
Jeffrey Smart, 2006
some experience helpful
This painting offers practice in rendering realistic textures like concrete and weathered surfaces, as well as creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective and accurate proportions.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the pylon, road, and distant elements.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color: sky, pylon, road, and distant wall.
- step 03
Develop the sky with subtle gradations of color, blending carefully.
- step 04
Add details to the pylon, including the posters, graffiti, and variations in the concrete texture.
- step 05
Paint the road and sidewalk, paying attention to the subtle changes in color and value.
- step 06
Add the truck and figures, ensuring they are in proportion to the rest of the scene.
- step 07
Refine the details and add highlights and shadows to create depth and realism.
- step 08
Add final details and adjust colors as needed.
color palette
primary · beige · grey · blue · brown
secondary · yellow · pink · green
Mix various shades of beige and grey by combining white, burnt umber, and a touch of blue. Achieve the sky color by mixing blue and white with a hint of yellow. The browns are created with burnt umber, sienna, and black.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·glazing
- ·dry brushing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·trompe-l'oeil
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of the pylon and other elements.
- →Overly bright or saturated colors that detract from the realism.
- →Lack of subtle variations in color and value, resulting in a flat appearance.
- →Ignoring the effects of atmospheric perspective on distant objects.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (18x24 inches)
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·Round brushes (various sizes)
- ·Flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)
- ·Linseed oil (if using oil paints)
optional
- ·Retarder medium
- ·Varnish
- ·Easel
Use a smooth canvas to achieve the desired level of detail. Consider using a medium to slow drying time, especially when blending colors.
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