plate no. 1362

The Family

canvas, oilExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresinteriorfamilywindowhatstable

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying forms and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive and expressive image. Students will also learn to create depth and interest through subtle variations in tone and brushstroke.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the window.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color using thinned paint, starting with the background and then the figures.
step 03
Build up the darker tones in the figures' clothing and hats, using thicker paint and visible brushstrokes.
step 04
Add the lighter tones to the faces and hands, blending the edges slightly to create soft transitions.
step 05
Define the window frame and the light coming through the window with brighter yellows and whites.
step 06
Refine the details of the figures, such as the hands and the folds in the clothing.
step 07
Add final touches and highlights to create depth and interest.
step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · ivory black

secondary · titanium white · burnt umber

Mix yellow ochre with raw umber to create the various shades of brown and yellow in the background and figures. Use white to lighten these colors and create highlights. Add small amounts of black to darken the colors and create shadows.

techniques