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home·artworks·Survivors
Survivors by Zaya

plate no. 9887

Survivors

Zaya

oilMagic Realismgenre paintingfigurehorsegas maskdressabstract background
some experience helpful

Recreating this painting would help students develop skills in layering colors and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. It also encourages exploration of unusual subject matter and imaginative composition.

technical profile

palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and horse.

  2. step 02

    Block in the background with broad strokes of color, creating a textured, abstract effect.

  3. step 03

    Establish the main colors of the figure's dress and the horse, using a limited palette.

  4. step 04

    Add details to the figure's gas mask and the horse's features, paying attention to the light and shadow.

  5. step 05

    Develop the patterns and textures on the dress and the horse's saddle blanket.

  6. step 06

    Refine the background colors and textures, adding depth and visual interest.

  7. step 07

    Add final details and highlights to the figure and horse, enhancing their form and presence.

  8. step 08

    Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · blue · white

secondary · green · purple · brown

Achieve the various shades of red, yellow, and green by mixing the primary colors with white and brown. Use complementary colors to create visual interest and contrast.

techniques

  • ·Impasto
  • ·Dry brushing
  • ·Color layering
  • ·Scumbling
  • ·Broken color

common pitfalls

  • →Overworking the details and losing the spontaneity of the brushstrokes.
  • →Creating a flat, lifeless background.
  • →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
  • →Inaccurate proportions of the figure and horse.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·Stretched canvas
  • ·Acrylic or oil paints
  • ·Assorted brushes (flat, round)
  • ·Palette knife
  • ·Palette
  • ·Linseed oil or acrylic medium
  • ·Odorless mineral spirits or water
  • ·Rags

optional

  • ·Retarder medium
  • ·Varnish
  • ·Easel

Use a medium-textured canvas to enhance the brushstrokes. Acrylics are faster drying, while oils allow for more blending time.

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oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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