plate no. 0032
Smokers and Drinkers
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering textures, creating depth through atmospheric perspective, and capturing the nuances of light and shadow in a complex scene. It also provides practice in painting figures in a variety of poses and expressions.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the table.
- step 02
Establish the overall tonal values with a thin wash of burnt umber or raw sienna.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures and the background, paying attention to the light source.
- step 04
Begin to refine the details of the figures, including their clothing, faces, and hands.
- step 05
Add the details of the table, candle, and other objects in the scene.
- step 06
Develop the background, using atmospheric perspective to create depth.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create form and dimension.
- step 08
Refine the details and make any necessary adjustments to the composition.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · yellow ochre · ivory black
secondary · cadmium yellow · viridian green · cadmium red
Achieve the warm, muted tones by mixing earth tones with small amounts of other colors. Use glazes to build up depth and richness.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong tonal foundation.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Losing the overall sense of atmosphere and depth.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
- ·linseed oil
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use a canvas with a smooth texture to facilitate blending and glazing.
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