plate no. 8036
The Light Shineth in Darkness and the Darkness Comprehendeth It Not
Evelyn De Morgan, 1906
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, drapery rendering, and creating atmospheric light effects. Students will also learn to mix subtle color gradations to achieve a sense of depth and luminosity.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 25 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a preliminary sketch outlining the main figures and composition.
- step 02
Establish the background with dark blues and purples, blending smoothly.
- step 03
Block in the angel figure with light tones, focusing on the drapery folds.
- step 04
Paint the light source emanating from the angel, using yellows, pinks, and blues.
- step 05
Add details to the angel's wings, using subtle color variations.
- step 06
Paint the figures below, paying attention to anatomy and shading.
- step 07
Add the chains and other details to the figures.
- step 08
Refine the light and shadows throughout the painting to create depth and atmosphere.
color palette
primary · titanium white · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · alizarin crimson
secondary · burnt umber · cadmium yellow · violet · raw sienna
Achieve the luminous effect by layering thin glazes of color. Mix white with small amounts of other colors to create subtle highlights. Use blues and purples to create shadows and depth.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·figure drawing
- ·drapery rendering
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated, resulting in a flat appearance.
- →Inaccurate figure proportions.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (18x24 inches)
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·alizarin crimson oil paint
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·medium gloss
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to help establish the value structure.
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