plate no. 1551

The Christmas Tree

Fairfield Porter, 1971

oilContemporary Realisminteriorinteriorroomchristmas treefurnituredoorwayfireplace

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited palette to create a cohesive and harmonious composition. It also encourages observation of light and shadow to define forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the doorway, furniture, and fireplace.
step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by applying thin washes of color to the main areas (walls, floor, furniture).
step 03
Block in the larger shapes of the Christmas tree and other details with simplified color masses.
step 04
Refine the shapes and colors of the furniture, paying attention to the light and shadow patterns.
step 05
Add details to the fireplace and the artwork above it.
step 06
Develop the texture of the rug with small, broken brushstrokes.
step 07
Add final details to the Christmas tree, including the ornaments and branches.
step 08
Adjust values and colors as needed to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · gray · yellow · orange · white

secondary · blue · red · green

Mix various shades of gray by combining white with small amounts of black, burnt umber, and blue. Achieve the orange hues by mixing yellow and red, and create muted greens by blending yellow and blue with a touch of brown.

techniques