plate no. 9933
The `New World'
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering figures with accurate proportions and capturing the nuances of fabric and textures. It also provides practice in creating depth and atmosphere through careful value control and color mixing.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the composition and placement of figures.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors of the background and figures using thin washes.
- step 03
Develop the values and details of the figures, starting with the darkest areas and gradually adding highlights.
- step 04
Pay close attention to the folds and drapery of the clothing, using subtle color variations to create form.
- step 05
Add details to the faces and masks, focusing on capturing the expressions and character of each figure.
- step 06
Refine the background and architectural elements, adding details and textures as needed.
- step 07
Glaze over areas to unify the color palette and create a sense of atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · ivory black · titanium white · cadmium red light
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · sap green
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and using white to adjust values. Use thin glazes of color to build up depth and luminosity.
techniques
- ·underpainting
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·figure drawing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
- →Inaccurate proportions of figures.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·cadmium red light oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use a toned canvas to help establish the overall value range of the painting. Consider using a medium to thin the oil paints and improve flow.
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