plate no. 8299

Reflections (Arrangement in Pink and Blue)

Joseph DeCamp, 1901

oil, canvasImpressionismportraitfigureportraitreflectionchairdressinterior

some experience helpful

This painting offers a great opportunity to practice limited palette painting and capturing subtle light and shadow variations to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. Students will also learn to simplify complex forms and focus on the overall impression rather than precise details.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, chair, and reflection using a light pencil or thin wash of burnt umber.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure by blocking in the darkest and lightest areas with diluted paint.
step 03
Begin layering in the mid-tones, focusing on the subtle shifts in value and color temperature.
step 04
Develop the details of the figure's face and clothing, paying attention to the soft edges and blurred lines.
step 05
Work on the reflection, simplifying the forms and using lighter values to create a sense of distance.
step 06
Refine the brushwork, using loose, expressive strokes to capture the texture and atmosphere of the scene.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and dimension.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall composition, making any necessary adjustments to the values, colors, or edges.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white

secondary · alizarin crimson · ultramarine blue

Achieve the warm, muted tones by mixing burnt umber and raw sienna with varying amounts of white. Use small amounts of alizarin crimson and ultramarine blue to create subtle color variations and shadows.

techniques