plate no. 2978
The Choir of the Church of Sant'antonio Abate in Milan
Giovanni Segantini, 1879
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting complex architectural spaces, understanding light and shadow, and creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in rendering textures of different materials like wood and fabric.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the basic perspective and proportions of the interior space.
- step 02
Block in the large shapes and areas of color, focusing on the overall value structure.
- step 03
Establish the light source and begin to define the areas of light and shadow.
- step 04
Start adding details to the architectural elements, such as the choir stalls and the painting on the wall.
- step 05
Refine the figure, paying attention to the drapery and the fall of light.
- step 06
Add details to the floor and the shadows cast by the objects in the scene.
- step 07
Adjust the colors and values to create a sense of atmosphere and depth.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre
secondary · burnt sienna · ivory black · cadmium red light
Achieve the muted tones by mixing earth tones with white and small amounts of black or red. Use thin glazes to build up color and create depth.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect perspective can ruin the sense of space.
- →Overworking the details can make the painting look stiff.
- →Not paying attention to the values can flatten the image.
- →Ignoring the subtle color variations can make the painting look monotonous.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·assorted brushes
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to establish a base color.
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