plate no. 6596
The Little Spys
Augustus Edwin Mulready, 1886
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting figures in a realistic manner, as well as understanding atmospheric perspective and light sources. Students will also learn how to create a focal point through color and composition.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the building.
- step 02
Establish the main light source (the window) and the overall value structure.
- step 03
Block in the large shapes of the figures and the building with simplified colors.
- step 04
Refine the details of the figures, paying attention to their anatomy and clothing.
- step 05
Add details to the building, including the windows, walls, and roof.
- step 06
Develop the atmospheric perspective by softening the edges and muting the colors of the background.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 08
Refine the details and add finishing touches.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · cadmium red · ivory black
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white
Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, ivory black, and titanium white. Use cadmium red to create the warm glow of the window. Mix ultramarine blue with white and a touch of brown for the night sky.
techniques
- ·underpainting
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·figure drawing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Ignoring the principles of atmospheric perspective.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
- ·easel
Use a medium-grit canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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