plate no. 5682

Still Life with Oranges

Arthur Segal, 1929

oilRealismstill lifestill lifeorangesbookpitcherbowltable

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand the use of chiaroscuro to create depth and form, as well as practice blending techniques to achieve smooth transitions between light and shadow. Students will also learn how to simplify complex shapes into basic forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition lightly on the canvas, paying attention to the placement of the objects.
step 02
Establish the background with a dark, muted tone, gradually blending it into the lighter areas.
step 03
Block in the main colors of each object, focusing on the overall value and temperature.
step 04
Begin to refine the shapes and forms by adding highlights and shadows, using soft blending techniques.
step 05
Pay close attention to the light source and how it affects the surfaces of the objects.
step 06
Add details to the objects, such as the texture of the oranges and the edges of the book.
step 07
Refine the transitions between light and shadow, ensuring a smooth and realistic effect.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · viridian · cadmium orange · ivory black

Mix yellow ochre and burnt umber with white to create the various shades of the background and the book. Use viridian and white for the green book. Mix cadmium orange with burnt umber and a touch of white for the oranges.

techniques