plate no. 5306

The Fireside

Leon Underwood, 1919

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfigurebabyinteriorchairfireplaceclothing

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in rendering figures and clothing with muted colors and visible brushstrokes. It also allows students to explore creating a sense of intimacy and quiet domesticity.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and composition, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and then the figures.
step 03
Gradually build up layers of color, adding details and refining the shapes.
step 04
Pay attention to the light and shadow, and use them to create depth and form.
step 05
Add texture with visible brushstrokes, following the contours of the forms.
step 06
Mix subtle color variations to create a sense of realism and depth.
step 07
Refine the details of the faces and clothing, paying attention to the folds and wrinkles.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of dimension.

color palette

primary · titanium white · raw umber · burnt sienna · cerulean blue

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red light · ivory black

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining raw umber, burnt sienna, and titanium white. Add small amounts of blue or red to adjust the temperature of the grays.

techniques