plate no. 6624
Terrace
Konstantín Korovin, 1915
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing to achieve subtle variations and in capturing the impressionistic style through loose brushwork. It also provides practice in depicting figures in an interior setting.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures, table, and windows.
- step 02
Establish the overall color scheme with a thin wash of diluted paint.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figures, table, and background using broad brushstrokes.
- step 04
Develop the color variations within each area, paying attention to the light and shadow.
- step 05
Add details to the figures' faces and clothing, using smaller brushes.
- step 06
Refine the details of the flowers and other objects on the table.
- step 07
Adjust the overall values and colors to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form and texture.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white · alizarin crimson
secondary · viridian · raw umber · cadmium yellow light
Achieve the subtle pinks and purples by mixing alizarin crimson and ultramarine blue with white. Create the greens by mixing yellow ochre and viridian. Use raw umber to create shadows and earthy tones.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·wet-on-wet blending
- ·scumbling
- ·alla prima
- ·color temperature
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the impressionistic feel.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing them.
- →Ignoring the subtle color variations and light effects.
- →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round, flat, filbert)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·mahl stick
Use a medium-textured canvas to allow for expressive brushwork. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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