Botticelli & Caravaggio: Level 2

Explore two very different approaches to painting through Botticelli and Caravaggio. Over five weeks, students will create two oil paintings from reference, one inspired by Botticelli’s graceful figures, color and line, and one using Caravaggio’s dramatic light, deep shadows and realism.

How to develop a painting from a photographic or classical reference

• How Botticelli used graceful line, color, composition and simplified form
• How to paint skin, fabric and delicate color transitions
• How Caravaggio used dramatic light, shadow and strong value relationships
• How to use historical painting techniques without simply copying an Old Master

Students will complete two oil paintings based on reference: one inspired by Botticelli and one inspired by Caravaggio. They will also leave with a stronger understanding of composition, color, value, light, skin tones and how to translate a reference into a finished painting.

Supply List for Students to Bring:

This is a studio class and students will be using their supplies on the first week.

• Oil paints: Titanium White, Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Yellow Hue, Cadmium Red Hue, Alizarin Crimson, Ultramarine Blue, Viridian, Burnt Sienna and Burnt Umber (Naples Yellow Hue optional)
• Brushes: one large flat or filbert brush approximately 1" - 1.5" wide, several medium flat or filbert brushes, and one or two small round or filbert brushes. A soft synthetic brush for skin and blending also recommended.
• Refined linseed oil
• Odorless mineral spirits such as Gamsol and a small sealed container
• Palette or disposable palette paper
• Palette knife
• Two stretched canvases or canvas panels. Minimum size 12 x 16 inches. 16 x 20 inches is recommended. Students comfortable working larger may use 18 x 24 inches.
• Pencil and eraser
• Printed reference images. Students may bring their own reference, and the instructor will also provide a selection of references appropriate for Botticelli and Caravaggio inspired paintings.