The Fading Many Coloured Woods

surface prep

The canvas should be primed to accept oil paint. While specific priming methods for Farquharson are not detailed in the sources, traditional oil painting practices involve preparing a stable surface to prevent cracking. The 'fat over lean' rule implies that the initial layers must be leaner (more solvent) than subsequent layers, suggesting a standard oil ground is appropriate (Source 3).

underdrawing

Traditional oil painting techniques often begin with the artist sketching the subject onto the canvas with charcoal or thinned paint (Source 3). For a realist landscape, this underdrawing would establish the coherent composition of the woods, sky, and weather elements (Source 1).

underpainting

A monochrome underpainting (grisaille) may be employed, where red and yellow tones are mentally extracted to establish values before color is applied (Source 4). This technique allows the artist to focus on form and light before introducing the complex color interactions of the 'many coloured woods'.

Fat over Lean

Each additional layer of paint should contain more oil than the layer below to allow proper drying and prevent cracking.

Glazing and Scumbling

Glazing applies transparent coats of color, while scumbling applies semi-opaque layers over a darker ground to create coldness or grey blooms, useful for atmospheric effects.

Monochrome Underpainting

Establishing values in grisaille before adding color helps in accurately depicting light and form, a method practiced by old masters.