plate no. 9040

September Afternoon

oilImpressionismportraitfigureportraitlandscapedressbookchair

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing light and shadow on fabric and skin tones, as well as simplifying complex forms into impressionistic brushstrokes. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere in a landscape.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the main elements of the background.
step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by blocking in large areas of color, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 03
Begin to refine the figure, focusing on the shapes and values of the dress and the face.
step 04
Add details to the background, using loose brushstrokes to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 05
Refine the details of the face and hands, paying attention to the subtle variations in color and value.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create a sense of form and dimension.
step 07
Adjust the overall composition and color balance to create a harmonious and unified image.
step 08
Add final details and touches to complete the painting.

color palette

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

secondary · cadmium yellow · alizarin crimson · viridian

Mix white with yellow ochre and a touch of burnt umber for the warm highlights on the dress and skin. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create the darker tones in the shadows and background. Add small amounts of alizarin crimson and cadmium yellow to the skin tones to create warmth.

techniques