plate no. 1561
The Temple of Isis on Philae island
Vasily Polenov, 1882
some experience helpful
This painting provides practice in rendering complex forms with light and shadow, and in creating a sense of depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to simplify intricate details and focus on capturing the overall impression of the scene.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a simple sketch to establish the basic composition and perspective.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes of the columns, architecture, and ground with thin washes of color.
- step 03
Establish the light and shadow patterns, focusing on the areas of strongest contrast.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the columns and architecture, simplifying the intricate designs.
- step 05
Develop the texture of the stone and ground using broken brushstrokes and dry brushing.
- step 06
Refine the colors and values, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
- step 07
Add highlights and details to create a sense of depth and realism.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall composition, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white
secondary · ultramarine blue · viridian green · yellow ochre
Mix browns and grays by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, and ultramarine blue. Use white to lighten the values and yellow ochre to add warmth.
techniques
- ·broken color
- ·dry brushing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·scumbling
- ·glazing
common pitfalls
- →Getting bogged down in details too early.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Overworking the painting and losing the freshness of the brushstrokes.
- →Ignoring the subtle color variations in the shadows and highlights.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#6 flat brush
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·turpentine
Use a medium-textured canvas to help create a sense of depth and texture. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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