plate no. 0985
The Glasgow Exhibition
John Lavery, 1888
some experience helpful
This painting provides practice in capturing figures in a loose, impressionistic style and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to simplify details and focus on capturing the overall mood and light.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of figures and the main architectural elements.
- step 02
Block in the background with light washes of color, establishing the overall tone and atmosphere.
- step 03
Establish the dark values of the figures' clothing and the interior spaces.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the figures, focusing on capturing their gestures and poses rather than precise facial features.
- step 05
Add highlights to the figures and the tablecloths to create contrast and visual interest.
- step 06
Paint the hanging lights, using small strokes of yellow and orange to suggest their glow.
- step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values as needed to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final touches and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · ivory black · burnt umber · raw sienna
secondary · titanium white · yellow ochre · cadmium red
Mix black and umber for dark tones, add white for highlights. Use yellow ochre and a touch of red for the warm glow of the lights.
techniques
- ·dry brush
- ·scumbling
- ·broken color
- ·atmospheric perspective
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the loose, impressionistic feel.
- →Making the figures too stiff and unnatural.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- →Using colors that are too saturated and bright.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes size 2-6
- ·linseed oil
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Thin the oil paints with linseed oil for smoother application.
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