
plate no. 2828
Charles Blackman, 1965
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic shapes and placement of the three figures on the canvas.
Block in the background color with a thin wash of yellow ochre.
Start with the figure on the left, blocking in the dark dress with a mix of brown and black.
Add the red highlights to the dress and the pinkish tone to the legs.
Move to the middle figure, blocking in the green head and the blue and white dress.
Paint the striped skirt of the rightmost figure, using a variety of colors.
Add the shadows and highlights to create depth and dimension.
Refine the shapes and edges of the figures, paying attention to the negative space.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · brown · green · blue
secondary · red · white · black · pink
Mix different shades of green by combining yellow ochre and blue. Create the skin tones by mixing white with a touch of red and brown.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Acrylic paints are easier to clean up, but oil paints offer richer colors and blending capabilities.
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