plate no. 8208

Still Life with Frying Pan and Red Cabbage

Louisa Matthiasdottir, 1979

oilExpressionismstill lifestill lifetableclothpotspansreflectionfruit

some experience helpful

This painting is great for practicing color mixing and creating form with simple brushstrokes. Students can learn to simplify complex shapes and capture the essence of the objects.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the background and tablecloth.
step 03
Establish the main colors of each object, focusing on the shadows and highlights.
step 04
Refine the shapes and details of the objects, paying attention to their relationships to each other.
step 05
Add the reflections in the mirror, simplifying the forms and colors.
step 06
Define the pattern of the tablecloth, using varying shades of blue and white.
step 07
Add final details and highlights to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Step back and make any necessary adjustments to the overall composition and color balance.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt umber · yellow ochre

secondary · cadmium red · ivory black

Mix various shades of blue by combining ultramarine blue and white. Achieve browns by mixing burnt umber, yellow ochre, and a touch of blue. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques