plate no. 4155
School of painting
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand tonal values and how to create depth using subtle shifts in value. It also provides practice in rendering figures in a realistic setting.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a simple sketch to map out the composition, focusing on the placement of figures and easels.
- step 02
Establish the overall tonal range by applying a thin wash of a neutral color across the canvas.
- step 03
Begin blocking in the larger shapes of the figures and objects, paying attention to their relative values.
- step 04
Gradually refine the shapes and details, working from dark to light.
- step 05
Add highlights to create a sense of form and dimension.
- step 06
Develop the background elements, ensuring they recede into the distance.
- step 07
Pay attention to the lighting and shadows to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final details and adjustments to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · burnt umber
Achieve the various shades of gray and brown by mixing ivory black, raw umber, and titanium white in different proportions. Add small amounts of yellow ochre or burnt umber to warm up the tones.
techniques
- ·grisaille
- ·value studies
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figures wrong.
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Using too much color, which will detract from the monochromatic feel.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a canvas with a smooth surface for easier blending. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a mid-tone value.
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