plate no. 6597
The Virgin Mary
Norval Morrisseau, 1966
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for practicing flat color application and bold outlining. Students can learn about simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure, moon, sun, and cross, paying attention to proportions.
- step 02
Outline the entire sketch with a dark color (black or dark brown).
- step 03
Fill in the background with a flat orange color.
- step 04
Paint the figure's skin with a dark brown, using flat, even strokes.
- step 05
Add the blue robe, again using flat color application.
- step 06
Paint the red and yellow details on the robe and figure.
- step 07
Add the details to the sun, moon, and cross.
- step 08
Refine the outlines and add any final details.
color palette
primary · orange · blue · red · black
secondary · yellow · brown · white
Mix the dark brown for the skin by combining red, blue, and a touch of black. Adjust the orange background by mixing yellow and red.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·bold outlining
- ·shape simplification
- ·color blocking
common pitfalls
- →uneven color application
- →muddy colors from over-mixing
- →inaccurate proportions in the initial sketch
- →hesitant or shaky outlines
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·acrylic paints
- ·canvas or heavy paper
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·water
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·ruler
- ·masking tape
Using a thicker paint will help achieve the flat, opaque colors. Consider using a matte medium to reduce shine.
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