plate no. 5262
White Roses
Graydon Parrish, 2010
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the overall shape and placement of the roses and leaves.
- step 02
Block in the background with a thin, neutral color.
- step 03
Establish the darkest values in the shadows of the roses and leaves.
- step 04
Begin layering lighter tones to define the form of each petal, paying attention to the direction of light.
- step 05
Add highlights to the petals to create a sense of depth and dimension.
- step 06
Refine the details of the leaves, including veins and edges.
- step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a harmonious composition.
- step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · titanium white · ivory black · yellow ochre
secondary · sap green · raw umber
Achieve the subtle variations in white by mixing small amounts of yellow ochre, ivory black, or raw umber with titanium white. Use sap green and raw umber to create a range of greens for the leaves.
techniques
- ·layering
- ·blending
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·value control
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Making the whites too stark and lacking in subtle color variations.
- →Ignoring the importance of shadows in creating form.
- →Not paying attention to the overall composition and balance of the painting.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·sap green oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·odorless mineral spirits
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. A smooth canvas surface will allow for easier blending.
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