plate no. 4964
The Reprimand
Eastman Johnson, 1880
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and figures, paying attention to proportions and placement.
- step 02
Block in the main areas of color using thin washes, starting with the background and working forward.
- step 03
Establish the light and shadow patterns, focusing on the areas around the figures and fireplace.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the figures, including clothing folds and facial features.
- step 05
Develop the textures of the walls, furniture, and fireplace using varied brushstrokes.
- step 06
Refine the details and add highlights to create a sense of depth and realism.
- step 07
Glaze over areas to unify the colors and create a sense of atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final touches and adjust values as needed.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · alizarin crimson
Mix muted browns and grays by combining the primary colors with white. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create a range of dark neutrals. Add small amounts of alizarin crimson to warm up the browns.
techniques
- ·dry brush texture
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·broken color
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Creating colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Ignoring the importance of atmospheric perspective.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 18x24
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·flat brushes (sizes 4, 8)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·turpentine
- ·retouch varnish
Use a medium-tooth canvas for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to speed up the painting process.
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