plate no. 6016

The Stairway

George Ault, 1921

oilPrecisionisminteriorarchesfiguresstairsarchitectureinteriorwindow

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing to achieve subtle tonal variations and in accurately depicting architectural forms with precise lines and shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement and proportions of the arches, figures, and window.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and walls using a neutral gray.
step 03
Mix and apply the subtle variations of gray to create depth and shadow within the arches and walls.
step 04
Paint the figures, paying attention to their simplified forms and the details of their clothing.
step 05
Add the red window, ensuring its placement and proportions are accurate.
step 06
Refine the edges and details of the architectural elements to create a sense of precision.
step 07
Add the shadows cast by the figures and architectural elements.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to achieve the desired mood and atmosphere.

color palette

primary · gray · white · green

secondary · red · black

The various shades of gray are achieved by mixing white with small amounts of black, burnt umber, and possibly a touch of blue. The green is likely a mix of blue and yellow with white to mute the tone.

techniques