plate no. 1331
Sodales - Mr Steer and Mr Sickert
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering figures in a complex interior setting and understanding how light affects the colors and textures of different surfaces. It also provides practice in capturing the nuances of facial expressions and body language.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 25 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes and composition, paying attention to proportions and placement of figures.
- step 02
Establish the background colors and values, working from general to specific.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the figures, focusing on the overall tones and shadows.
- step 04
Develop the details of the faces, paying attention to the subtle variations in color and value.
- step 05
Add details to the clothing and furniture, capturing the textures and patterns.
- step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows, creating depth and dimension.
- step 07
Add final details and highlights to bring the painting to life.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · raw sienna
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white or black to adjust the value. Use thin glazes to create depth and luminosity.
techniques
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·broken color
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figures wrong.
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall impression.
- →Failing to capture the subtle variations in color and value.
- →Ignoring the importance of light and shadow.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A medium-textured canvas will provide a good surface for the brushwork.
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