plate no. 8093
The Fable
Berthe Morisot, 1883
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing light and shadow with loose brushstrokes and mixing subtle color variations to depict atmospheric perspective. It also provides practice in rendering figures in a relaxed, informal 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 and the bench.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas: the ground, foliage, figures' clothing, and the sky.
- step 03
Establish the light source and begin adding shadows and highlights to create form.
- step 04
Develop the details of the figures' faces and clothing, using small, broken brushstrokes.
- step 05
Add texture to the foliage and ground with varied brushstrokes and color mixtures.
- step 06
Refine the edges of shapes to create a sense of softness and atmosphere.
- step 07
Add final highlights and details to enhance the sense of light and depth.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · titanium white · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · rose madder
secondary · burnt umber · sap green · cadmium yellow light
Mix various shades of green by combining yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, and a touch of burnt umber. Achieve the skin tones by mixing titanium white, rose madder, and yellow ochre. Use ultramarine blue and titanium white to create the blue of the dress, adding touches of rose madder for warmth.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·wet-on-wet blending
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·alla prima
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details, which can lead to a stiff and unnatural look.
- →Using too much detail in the background, which can flatten the sense of depth.
- →Failing to capture the subtle color variations in the light and shadow.
- →Not paying attention to the proportions of the figures.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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