plate no. 0325

Red Jug

Mary Fedden, 1968

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)still lifestill lifefruitjugtableabstractfood

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand simplified forms and color relationships. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to create texture and interest.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the jug, plate, and fruit.
step 02
Block in the background colors, dividing the canvas into distinct areas.
step 03
Paint the white plate with thick, textured brushstrokes.
step 04
Add the shapes of the fruit and other objects on the plate, using simplified forms.
step 05
Mix and apply the colors for the jug, paying attention to its overall shape and value.
step 06
Refine the details of the fruit and objects, adding subtle variations in color and texture.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Step back and adjust colors and values as needed to achieve a harmonious composition.

color palette

primary · red · white · green · brown

secondary · orange · yellow · gray

Mix various shades of red by adding white or brown. Achieve muted greens by mixing green with brown or gray. Create the off-white color of the plate by mixing white with small amounts of brown, yellow, and gray.

techniques