plate no. 6892
The shoemaker
Ferdinand Hodler, 1878
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering realistic figures in a complex indoor environment and managing a limited color palette to create a cohesive and atmospheric effect.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the main elements of the workshop.
- step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by applying a thin underpainting of warm browns and ochres.
- step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, paying attention to proportions and anatomical accuracy.
- step 04
Develop the details of the face and hands, using subtle variations in tone and color to create a sense of realism.
- step 05
Paint the clothing and apron, focusing on the folds and highlights to create a sense of volume.
- step 06
Add the details of the workshop, including the tools, workbench, and other objects.
- step 07
Refine the lighting and shadows to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white
secondary · viridian · yellow ochre
Mix browns and ochres with white to create a range of warm, earthy tones. Use viridian to create the green of the apron, and mix it with browns to create shadows.
techniques
- ·underpainting
- ·blocking in
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·chiaroscuro
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figure wrong.
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall sense of atmosphere.
- →Using too much color and creating a painting that is too bright and saturated.
- →Ignoring the importance of light and shadow in creating a sense of depth.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·viridian oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·linseed oil
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium
- ·varnish
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette of colors to simplify the mixing process.
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