LINE AND MASS BLOCK-IN

This technique is beginner-friendly and one of oldest techniques in oil painting. Perhaps what our prehistoric pals first drew on cave walls.

STAGE 1

I have used charcoal on a burnt umber wash to make outlines of the model.

The block-in is a little more than a line drawing. We need colors and values placed between the lines. It is almost like colouring book except that there are no line, because you have to do the lines.

Figure 1

Figure 2 Figure 3

STAGE 2

I began with darker values on the in the shadow regions followed by lighter value. Notice at this stage I have not added any details to the toe nails or hair or facial expression.

STAGE 3

I have blocked-in most of the background at this point. I am focusing on getting the proportions right, so that it will be easy to work details going forward. I have the background and the subject blocked-in, and it is clear where this painting is headed. I wanted to maintain the softer edges, hence decided to go with these paint strokes.

Figure 4

STAGE 4

At this stage I have added the details in her facial expression and reflection.

Figure 5 Figure 6

Benefits of this technique

Beginner-friendly. I personally find this technique easiest as it gives us the control to lay down the initial outlines at the first stage. Charcoal sticks were great, as they just help you with implied lines on which you can further build up your painting on with colors and values. This technique helps with build up layers, finishing with details in the later stages.

Drawbacks

1. Time consuming

2. The quality of edges may be affected, as there is a tendency to paint up the lines, but not into them.

References

1. Alla Prima: Everything I know about painting by Richard Schmid

2. Everything I know about painting by Casey Baugh