plate no. 0745
The Spinet
Thomas Dewing, 1902
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in capturing subtle light and shadow variations, as well as creating a sense of atmosphere through loose brushwork and muted colors. It also provides practice in depicting the human form in a dimly lit environment.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
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, piano, and background elements.
- step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or a similar earth tone.
- step 03
Block in the main color areas, paying attention to the subtle shifts in hue and value.
- step 04
Begin to develop the details of the figure, focusing on the highlights on the back and shoulders.
- step 05
Add the details of the piano and the surrounding environment, using loose brushstrokes to create texture.
- step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows, paying attention to the way light falls on the different surfaces.
- step 07
Add the final details, such as the flowers and the details of the dress.
- step 08
Glaze with thin layers of color to unify the painting and create depth.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · ivory black
secondary · cadmium yellow · raw sienna · ultramarine blue
Achieve the muted tones by mixing earth tones with small amounts of other colors. Use white sparingly to create highlights.
techniques
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·dry brushing
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the overall sense of atmosphere.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Failing to capture the subtle shifts in value.
- →Ignoring the importance of edges and transitions.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints (burnt umber, yellow ochre, ivory black, cadmium yellow, raw sienna, ultramarine blue)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine or mineral spirits
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A toned canvas can be helpful for establishing the overall value structure.
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