plate no. 5031
The St. Antoniuskapel in the St. Janskerk at Utrecht
Pieter Saenredam, 1645
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand linear perspective and how to create a sense of depth and space. It will also teach them how to mix subtle color variations to create realistic lighting.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Establish the horizon line and vanishing point.
- step 02
Lightly sketch the basic architectural structure using perspective lines.
- step 03
Block in the large shapes of the walls, ceiling, and floor with thin washes of color.
- step 04
Develop the details of the arches, columns, and windows, paying attention to their receding size.
- step 05
Add the figures in the foreground and background, keeping them simple and proportionate.
- step 06
Refine the lighting and shadows to create depth and atmosphere.
- step 07
Add the details of the floor tiles and the inscriptions on the walls.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to achieve a cohesive look.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white · ivory black
secondary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna
Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining the primary colors. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna to add warmth to the highlights and shadows.
techniques
- ·linear perspective
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·value studies
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect perspective can ruin the illusion of depth.
- →Overworking the details can make the painting look stiff and unnatural.
- →Ignoring the subtle color variations can flatten the image.
- →Not establishing a clear light source will make the painting look confusing.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·burnt sienna oil paint
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·retouch varnish
Use a fine-grain canvas to allow for smooth blending and subtle details. Consider using a toned ground to help establish the overall color harmony.
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