plate no. 5749
The Moon
Mary Fedden, 2008
suitable for beginners
This painting provides practice in simplifying forms and using color to define shapes. Students will learn to create a balanced composition with a limited palette.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the composition: the table, plate, fruit, and bottle.
- step 02
Block in the background colors: the sky, moon, and curtains.
- step 03
Paint the table cloth with its pattern.
- step 04
Add the base colors for the plate and the fruit (pears and grapes).
- step 05
Paint the wine bottle, including the label.
- step 06
Refine the shapes and add details to the fruit and bottle.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth.
- step 08
Review and adjust colors and details for a cohesive look.
color palette
primary · cerulean blue · viridian green · magenta · lemon yellow
secondary · white · black · purple
Mix greens by combining blues and yellows. Achieve the table cloth color by mixing magenta and white. Use white to lighten all colors for highlights.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·layering
- ·color mixing
- ·simplification of form
- ·blocking in
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details.
- →Using too many colors.
- →Not simplifying the forms enough.
- →Ignoring the overall composition.
materials
surface · canvas board
required
- ·acrylic paints
- ·canvas board
- ·assorted brushes
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·paper towels
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retarder medium
- ·easel
Use a limited palette of acrylic paints to match the original painting's colors. A canvas board is a good surface for beginners.
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