plate no. 0177

The Trial

Sidney Nolan, 1947

enamel, boardSurrealismgenre paintingcourtroomfigurespolicejudgeinteriorarchitecture

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and understanding how to use a limited color palette effectively. It also encourages expressive brushwork and stylized figure drawing.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the main figures and architectural elements.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and the floor.
step 03
Add the main figures, simplifying their forms into basic shapes.
step 04
Define the details of the judge, police officers, and the 'masked' figure.
step 05
Add the red and white checkerboard pattern on the floor.
step 06
Refine the details of the background, including the windows and the chandelier.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Apply final touches and adjustments to balance the composition.

color palette

primary · black · red · white · yellow ochre

secondary · blue · grey · green

Mix various shades of grey by combining black and white. Create the skin tones by mixing yellow ochre with small amounts of red and white. Use a touch of blue to create shadows.

techniques