plate no. 0635

Woman Reading

Dana Levin, 2003

oilContemporary Realismgenre paintingfigurewomanreadinginteriortablepapers

some experience helpful

This painting is great for learning to create a focal point using light and shadow, and for practicing subtle color variations in a limited palette. It also provides practice in rendering realistic skin tones and fabric folds.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the table.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the background with a dark neutral mix.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure and the table with mid-tone values.
step 04
Begin to refine the light areas on the figure, paying attention to the subtle shifts in value.
step 05
Add details to the face and hands, focusing on accurate proportions and subtle shading.
step 06
Paint the papers and other objects on the table, paying attention to their form and texture.
step 07
Adjust the overall values and colors to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · raw sienna

Mix various shades of gray by combining ivory black and titanium white. Use yellow ochre to warm up the whites for the figure's clothing and skin. Burnt umber can be used to darken shadows and add depth.

techniques