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QuikTip #3: Painting A Simple Rose

Author: Pierre Labeau, Contributing Editor

The anatomy of a rose is based on the interweaving of the petals, each petal slightly overlapping the next one. I don't know of any artist who isn't asked to paint roses, so add this little addition to your suitcase.

In this line drawing the general shape and design of the rose is established.
Here is a value (light & dark) sketch of the same rose. The dark or shadow sides of the petals are indicated by tone in order to show the form of the flower. The use of white on the gray background is to help give dimension to the blossom.
In this panel color is introduced in what will be the lightest areas of the petals. The local color of the leaves and stem and the cast shadow on the stem is added. "Local color" means the overall color of an object before light or dark areas are put in.
 

Here the painting is brought to completion by putting in the darks and highlights. The dew drops and the bee give more interest to what otherwise would be just a picture of a flower.