plate no. 9140

Sophia of Kyiv. Interior of the central nave from the iconostasis

Yuriy Khymych, 1968

gouacheRealisminteriorinteriorarchitecturereligious figuresiconschurchpaintings

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing the essence of complex spaces with simplified forms and color blocking, as well as understanding color temperature and light direction within an interior setting. It will also teach how to create the illusion of depth using color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the basic structure and perspective of the interior.
step 02
Block in the large shapes and areas of color, focusing on the overall composition and proportions.
step 03
Establish the main light source and begin to define the shadows and highlights.
step 04
Develop the color palette by mixing the primary and secondary colors to achieve the desired hues and tones.
step 05
Add details to the architectural elements and the figures, using small brushstrokes to create texture and interest.
step 06
Refine the composition by adjusting the values and colors to create depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add the decorative elements and patterns.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the overall balance and harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt sienna

secondary · viridian green · cadmium red · titanium white

Mix yellow ochre and ultramarine blue to create various shades of green and gray. Use burnt sienna and ultramarine blue to create dark browns and blacks. Add titanium white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques