plate no. 0104

Study for Three Muses

Will Barnet, 1985

charcoal, paperExpressionismsketch and studyfigurestreesbirdscharcoalsketchmuses

some experience helpful

This artwork is a great study in using a limited palette to create form and atmosphere. Recreating it will help students understand value relationships and how to suggest detail with expressive mark-making.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figures, trees, and birds.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas with charcoal, focusing on the trees and the birds.
step 03
Block in the mid-tones on the figures, paying attention to the drapery folds.
step 04
Use a blending stump or finger to soften some edges and create subtle gradations.
step 05
Add lighter values to the background and the front of the figures to create depth.
step 06
Refine the details of the figures' clothing and the birds' forms.
step 07
Add final highlights with a kneaded eraser to lift charcoal and suggest light.
step 08
Review the overall composition and adjust values as needed to create a cohesive image.

color palette

primary · black · white · gray

secondary · light blue

Varying pressure and layering of charcoal creates different values of gray. A touch of light blue can be added to the background to create a cool contrast.

techniques