plate no. 2922
Rex III
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors with pastels and creating atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, horizon line, and the base.
- step 02
Establish the background sky and water with broad strokes of pastel, blending colors softly.
- step 03
Block in the basic shapes of the figure with light yellow and green pastels.
- step 04
Add darker tones to define the shadows and contours of the figure and the base.
- step 05
Layer different shades of blue and brown to create the texture and movement of the water.
- step 06
Refine the details of the figure, adding highlights and subtle color variations.
- step 07
Add the crown with yellow and orange pastels, paying attention to its shape and form.
- step 08
Blend and soften the edges to create a hazy, dreamlike effect.
color palette
primary · yellow · blue · brown · white
secondary · green · orange · red
Mix blues and browns to create the water. Use white to lighten the colors and create highlights. Mix yellow and orange for the crown.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the pastels and losing the soft, hazy effect.
- →Making the figure too detailed and realistic.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Using colors that are too saturated and bright.
materials
surface · pastel paper
required
- ·Soft pastels
- ·Pastel paper
- ·Blending stumps
- ·Kneaded eraser
- ·Fixative spray
- ·Drawing board
- ·Paper towels
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Workable fixative
Choose a pastel paper with a slightly textured surface to hold the pastel particles. Use soft pastels for easier blending.
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