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Select by Sue Coe

plate no. 8367

Select

Sue Coe

oilSocial Realismsymbolic paintinglivestockanimalsfiguresbutcheryshadowsinterior
experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in rendering complex textures and forms using a limited value range, as well as creating a strong sense of depth through chiaroscuro. Students will also learn to depict a narrative scene with symbolic elements.

technical profile

palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Create a preliminary sketch to establish the composition and proportions.

  2. step 02

    Block in the main shapes and areas of light and shadow using a mid-tone gray.

  3. step 03

    Gradually build up darker values in the shadows, paying attention to the direction of light.

  4. step 04

    Add highlights to the lighter areas, creating contrast and definition.

  5. step 05

    Refine the details of the figures and animals, focusing on their forms and textures.

  6. step 06

    Use hatching and cross-hatching to create depth and dimension.

  7. step 07

    Pay close attention to the rendering of the textures of the animals' fur and the workers' clothing.

  8. step 08

    Add final touches and details to enhance the overall impact of the painting.

color palette

primary · black · white · gray

secondary ·

Achieve various shades of gray by mixing black and white in different proportions. Use diluted black for lighter tones and pure black for the darkest shadows.

techniques

  • ·hatching
  • ·cross-hatching
  • ·chiaroscuro
  • ·value studies
  • ·rendering textures

common pitfalls

  • →Failing to establish a clear value structure, resulting in a flat and lifeless painting.
  • →Overworking the details, leading to a cluttered and confusing composition.
  • →Ignoring the direction of light, resulting in inconsistent shadows and highlights.
  • →Not paying enough attention to the proportions and anatomy of the figures and animals.

materials

surface · drawing paper (smooth or slightly textured)

required

  • ·graphite pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
  • ·charcoal pencils
  • ·kneaded eraser
  • ·drawing paper (smooth or slightly textured)
  • ·blending stumps
  • ·ruler
  • ·pencil sharpener

optional

  • ·fixative spray
  • ·white chalk pencil

Use a variety of graphite and charcoal pencils to achieve a full range of values. Experiment with different blending techniques to create smooth transitions and subtle textures.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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