plate no. 7326
Un bistrot à Saint-Germain-des-Prés
experienced study
This painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, composition with multiple subjects, and creating depth through atmospheric perspective. Students will also learn to mix a range of neutral tones and subtle color variations.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the overall composition and placement of figures and objects.
- step 02
Block in the main shapes and colors of the background, including the shelves of bottles and the cityscape outside.
- step 03
Focus on the figures, sketching their poses and proportions before adding details.
- step 04
Mix a range of neutral tones and subtle color variations for the skin tones and clothing.
- step 05
Gradually build up the details of the faces, hands, and other features.
- step 06
Add the details of the bar area, including the bottles, glasses, and other objects.
- step 07
Refine the lighting and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · raw umber · burnt sienna · titanium white
secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre
Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Use thin glazes to build up depth and subtle color variations.
techniques
- ·underpainting
- ·glazing
- ·figure drawing
- ·atmospheric perspective
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong sense of composition.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in tone and color.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·burnt sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·cadmium red oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·assorted brushes
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·medium gloss
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a toned ground to help establish the overall color palette.
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