plate no. 4295
Tatic, Samuel Ruiz
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering paint, creating texture with visible brushstrokes, and understanding color relationships in a complex composition. It also encourages exploration of surrealist concepts and symbolic representation.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the background elements.
- step 02
Establish the background with broad strokes, using a mix of warm and cool colors to create depth and atmosphere.
- step 03
Block in the main figure, paying attention to the proportions and the overall form.
- step 04
Begin layering colors on the figure, building up the highlights and shadows to create dimension.
- step 05
Add details to the face and clothing, using smaller brushes to refine the features and textures.
- step 06
Work on the staff, ensuring it is straight and properly aligned.
- step 07
Paint the smaller inset image, paying attention to its unique composition and color palette.
- step 08
Add final touches and details to the entire painting, adjusting colors and values as needed.
color palette
primary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red
secondary · yellow ochre · viridian green · ivory black
Achieve the flesh tones by mixing white, red, and a touch of yellow ochre. Create depth in the background by layering blues and browns. Use viridian green and yellow ochre for the landscape.
techniques
- ·dry brush texture
- ·layering
- ·scumbling
- ·color mixing
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Not establishing a strong value structure.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
- →Ignoring the overall composition and focusing too much on individual elements.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints (burnt sienna, ultramarine blue, titanium white, cadmium red, yellow ochre, viridian green, ivory black)
- ·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
- ·easel
Use a medium-tooth canvas for better texture. Consider using a glazing medium to enhance the depth of colors.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
