Sight-Size Figure Painting

In week one, Stephen will demonstrate the materials needed to create a sight-size figure painting. You will learn about the various drawing and painting tools he uses. Stephen will teach you how to stretch canvas and paper.

In week two, you will learn how to establish the light and shadow patterns of the figure in your preparatory drawing. Stephen will demonstrate the buildup of the values using graphite and white chalk.

In week three, Stephen will demonstrate how to refine your preparatory figure drawing. You will learn how to create subtle transitions in the forms of the figure. He will show you how to analyze the figure with precision and accuracy.

In week four, you will bring your preparatory drawing of the figure to completion. Stephen will demonstrate adding the finishing touches to his drawing. You will learn how to make a complete light and shadow statement with the figure.

In week five, Stephen will demonstrate how to transfer his preparatory drawing of the figure to a canvas. You will learn how to create a color study of the pose. Lastly, you will begin the underpainting process.

In week six, you will learn how to develop an underpainting for your sight-size figure painting. Stephen will demonstrate how he assembles the underpainting utilizing raw umber and white.

In week seven, you will learn how to create the first color pass of your sight-size painting. Stephen will teach you how to premix your colors using a limited palette. He will show you how he arranges his palette for an effective workspace.

In week eight, you will discover how to complete the first color pass of your figure painting, done in the sight-size method. Stephen will focus on establishing a complete statement of the pose.

In week nine, you will begin working on the second color pass of the sight-size figure painting. Stephen will demonstrate how to use the first color pass as the foundation for the final paint layers.

In week ten, Stephen will demonstrate how to refine the second color pass of the sight-size figure painting. You will first learn how to oil out your painting; doing so helps bring the color saturation back to life. Stephen will focus primarily on developing the torso area of the model.

In week 11, you will learn how to render the second pass of color onto the head of your figure painting. Stephen will paint the shoulder area and refine the portrait of the model.

In week 12, Stephen works on the second color pass of the legs. You will learn how to refine and define the lower portion of the figure.

In week 13, Stephen will complete his long pose sight-size figure painting. You will learn how to add the finishing touches to your canvas.