plate no. 0349

Reveries

Maxfield Parrish, 1926

oilSymbolismgenre paintinggardenfiguresfountaintreesflowerslandscape

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as accurately rendering figures in a landscape setting. It also provides practice in capturing subtle light and shadow variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, fountain, and major landscape elements.
step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by blocking in large areas of color, starting with the darkest tones.
step 03
Begin layering colors to build up the forms and create depth, paying attention to the light source.
step 04
Refine the details of the figures, including their clothing and facial features.
step 05
Add details to the foliage and flowers, using a variety of brushstrokes to create texture.
step 06
Adjust the values and colors to create a sense of atmosphere and depth.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the realism of the painting.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall composition, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · sap green · alizarin crimson · cadmium yellow

Achieve the luminous quality by layering thin glazes of color. Mix greens by blending blues and yellows, and create subtle variations in skin tones by mixing white, ochre, and a touch of red.

techniques