Today I want to write about my favorite part of the painting process: the underpainting.
Underpainting is a fundamental technique in painting, where an initial layer of paint is applied to a canvas (or another surface) as the groundwork for further layers of color. It acts as a foundation, helping artists map out the composition, establish tonal values, and provide depth before adding the final colors. This method has been used by artists for centuries and remains a staple for many painters today.
What is Underpainting?
At its core, underpainting is the first layer of paint applied to a canvas. It's often done in a monochromatic or limited color palette to establish the values and composition of the painting. The goal is to set the tone (literally and figuratively) for the rest of the artwork.
The idea is that the underpainting will peek through the subsequent layers, adding dimension and richness to the final piece.
Why Use Underpainting?
Establishing Values and Contrast: One of the most important roles of underpainting is to lay out the light and dark values of your composition. Before committing to your final colors, you can work out the contrast and balance using a single color. This makes it easier to see where shadows and highlights will fall, giving your work a sense of depth and structure.
Creating Depth: Even after multiple layers of paint, some parts of the underpainting might remain visible, giving your artwork a sense of depth. This can make a painting look more complex and visually interesting. For example, the warmth of a reddish-brown underpainting can add a subtle glow when cooler colors are applied over it.
Saving Time: Underpainting can act as a road map for the rest of your painting process. Having already established the basic composition and values, you can focus on refining details and adding color. It can also prevent frustration if you're unsure about how certain colors will work together.
Harmonizing Colors: Since the underpainting layer interacts with subsequent layers, it can influence the overall harmony of colors in your painting. For example, a warm-toned underpainting might make the entire piece feel warmer, even if cooler colors are applied over it.
Techniques for Underpainting
Grisaille: Grisaille is a French term meaning "gray painting," where the underpainting is done entirely in shades of gray. This method is used to focus solely on values—light, middle, and dark tones—without the distraction of color. It's especially useful in classical and realist paintings.
Imprimatura: This involves applying a thin, translucent wash of color to the entire canvas before starting the actual painting. This helps to get rid of the stark white of the canvas and provides a toned surface that unifies the color scheme. Imprimatura is often used in combination with other underpainting techniques.
Verdaccio: A technique originating from Renaissance Italy, verdaccio involves using a greenish-gray tone for the underpainting, often for portraits or skin tones. This greenish hue gives a lifelike and realistic base when layered with fleshy, pinker tones. This method is particularly helpful in rendering subtle skin tones.
Personally I use self made canvases that are already toned with a neutral color, then I do the drawing with a colored pencil, ink or brush, and finally apply the layer of raw umber (or greenish raw umber) and white (lead white or titanium with an impasto medium).
Step-by-Step Guide to Underpainting
Prepare the Surface: Start by preparing your canvas or painting surface. Many artists prefer to gesso the canvas first, which creates a smooth, absorbent surface for the paint to adhere to.
Sketch the Composition: Lightly sketch the basic composition of your painting using pencil or charcoal (or your preferred drawing method). This will help guide the underpainting process.
Apply the Underpainting: Using your chosen color, block in the dark and light areas of your painting. If you're using oil paint, you might want to thin it down to create a wash. Focus on the overall shapes and tonal values rather than the details.
Let It Dry: Allow the underpainting to dry before adding additional layers.
Build Layers: Once the underpainting is dry, you can start adding layers of color on top. The transparency of each layer will allow the underpainting to shine through, adding depth and dimension.
Final Thoughts
Underpainting is a powerful tool that can transform your paintings. By laying down a strong foundation, you're giving your artwork structure, depth, and vibrancy. Whether you're working in oils or acrylics, and whether you're painting realistically or abstractly, underpainting is a technique that can elevate your work and improve your process.
Give it a try in your next painting and see how it helps you achieve richer, more harmonious results!
Let me know if you want me to write about other specific topics,
Ania
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