plate no. 5967

St. George, Michael, Anne and Mary Magdalene

Józef Mehoffer, 1910

stained glassArt Nouveau (Modern)religious paintingfiguresreligiousarchitecturestained glassornamentspatterns

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a detailed line drawing of the entire composition, paying close attention to the shapes and proportions of the figures and architectural elements.
step 02
Transfer the drawing to your chosen surface.
step 03
Outline all the shapes with a dark color to mimic the lead lines in stained glass.
step 04
Begin filling in the larger areas with flat colors, starting with the background.
step 05
Gradually add details and shading to the figures and ornaments.
step 06
Use thin glazes to create depth and luminosity.
step 07
Add highlights to simulate the effect of light passing through the glass.
step 08
Refine the outlines and add any final details.

color palette

primary · cobalt blue · cadmium red · yellow ochre · emerald green

secondary · purple · orange · white · black

Achieve the various shades of green by mixing yellow ochre with cobalt blue and emerald green. Create depth in the reds by glazing with a touch of purple or black.

techniques

·flat color application
·glazing
·color layering
·fine line work
·pattern replication

common pitfalls

→Oversimplifying the complex patterns.
→Inaccurate proportions in the figures.
→Muddying the colors by overmixing.
→Uneven application of flat colors.
→Ignoring the light source and failing to create a sense of depth.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic paints
·fine detail brushes
·palette
·water
·graphite pencil
·ruler

optional

·palette knife
·retarder medium
·varnish

Using a smooth canvas will help achieve the flat, even color application needed for this painting. Acrylics are recommended for their quick drying time and ease of use.

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