St. Francis Kneeling

Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the figure's pose and the placement of the skull.

Establish the dark background with a thin wash of dark brown or black.

Block in the main shapes of the figure with mid-tone browns and grays.

Begin building up the highlights on the face, hands, and robe, using lighter shades of brown and white.

Carefully render the folds and drapery of the robe, paying attention to the way light and shadow define the form.

Add details to the skull, using subtle variations in color and value to create a sense of depth.

Refine the edges of the figure and the background, softening some areas and sharpening others to create a sense of atmosphere.

Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the contrast and create a sense of drama.