plate no. 2438
Red Sails
Arman Manookian, 1928
some experience helpful
This painting offers practice in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive image. Students will also develop skills in depicting figures and foliage in a stylized manner.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of figures, boats, and foliage.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the sky and the sails.
- step 03
Add the darker tones to define the forms of the figures and foliage.
- step 04
Mix the skin tones and apply them to the figures, paying attention to the subtle variations in color.
- step 05
Add details to the boats and sails, such as the rigging and the patterns on the sails.
- step 06
Refine the foliage, adding highlights and shadows to create depth.
- step 07
Add the small details, such as the rocks and the pots.
- step 08
Review and adjust the colors and values as needed.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · cadmium red · yellow ochre
secondary · burnt umber · sap green · titanium white
Mix greens by combining blue and yellow. Create skin tones by mixing red, yellow, and brown, adjusting the proportions to achieve the desired shade.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·simplified shapes
- ·color mixing
- ·layering
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →overcomplicating the shapes
- →using too many colors
- →muddying the colors
- →losing the overall composition
- →uneven color application
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic paints
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#8 flat brush
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·paper towels
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retarder medium
- ·easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Acrylic paints are recommended for their fast drying time and ease of use.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
in this vein
