plate no. 9719
Still Life
Roman Selsky, 1926
some experience helpful
This painting offers practice in observing and representing simple forms with expressive brushstrokes and color variations. Students can develop their understanding of composition and color mixing to create a vibrant still life.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the objects and the decorative frame.
- step 02
Block in the background colors, starting with the darker tones.
- step 03
Establish the main colors of each object, focusing on the teapot and fruit.
- step 04
Add highlights and shadows to define the forms and create depth.
- step 05
Paint the decorative frame, paying attention to the color variations and details.
- step 06
Refine the details and adjust the colors as needed.
- step 07
Add the small details like the dots in the background.
- step 08
Let dry and add a varnish if desired.
color palette
primary · red · green · brown · blue
secondary · orange · yellow · white
Mix browns from primary colors, use white to create tints, and blend colors directly on the canvas to achieve the desired hues.
techniques
- ·color mixing
- ·blocking in
- ·expressive brushstrokes
- ·layering
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overmixing colors and creating muddy tones.
- →Losing the overall composition by focusing too much on details early on.
- →Not paying attention to the light source and shadows.
- →Making the colors too uniform and lacking variation.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·painting rags
Use a medium-textured canvas to enhance the brushstrokes. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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