plate no. 1523
The Spread
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on proportions and placement of the figure on the couch.
- step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the couch and background with broad strokes.
- step 03
Begin adding mid-tones to define the form of the figure, paying attention to the light source.
- step 04
Use lighter tones to suggest the highlights on the dress and skin.
- step 05
Refine the details of the face and hair, using short, expressive strokes.
- step 06
Add subtle shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 07
Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments to values and proportions.
- step 08
Add final details to the dress and couch.
color palette
primary · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · raw umber
Mix ivory black with varying amounts of titanium white to achieve different shades of gray. Use raw umber sparingly to add warmth to the shadows.
techniques
- ·hatching
- ·scumbling
- ·dry brushing
- ·value studies
- ·gesture drawing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the loose, expressive quality.
- →Failing to establish a clear value structure.
- →Getting lost in the details before establishing the overall composition.
- →Not paying attention to proportions.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·round brush #4
- ·flat brush #8
- ·linseed oil
- ·palette
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·painting medium
Use a toned canvas to make it easier to judge values.
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