plate no. 5136
The Student
Francisco Oller, 1874
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of figures and key objects.
- step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by blocking in the major areas of color.
- step 03
Develop the background, paying attention to the wallpaper pattern and the mirror reflection.
- step 04
Refine the figures, focusing on accurate proportions and details.
- step 05
Add details to the furniture and other objects in the room.
- step 06
Adjust the values and colors to create depth and atmosphere.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the form and texture.
- step 08
Make final adjustments and refinements to the painting.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · cerulean blue · alizarin crimson · raw sienna
Achieve the warm tones of the room by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and white. Use cerulean blue and white for the wallpaper, and alizarin crimson to create the red tones in the curtains.
techniques
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
- ·broken color
- ·rendering form with light and shadow
- ·creating texture with brushstrokes
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the figures wrong.
- →Overworking the details in the background.
- →Failing to capture the subtle variations in color and value.
- →Creating a flat, lifeless painting.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·rags
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·color chart
Use a medium-sized canvas to allow for sufficient detail. Consider using a toned canvas to establish the overall color scheme.
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