In this lesson with instructor Joe Altwer, you will discover how to set up a still-life within a shadow box. Joe will show you how he arranges a composition using non-reflective objects against a dark background. Then, you will learn to create a value study as a preparatory step for your final painting. Lastly, you will watch as Joe decides on the cropping of his study.

This lesson belongs to the course Still Life Painting in Sight-Size Method. In this 14-week course, Joe Altwer will introduce you to still-life painting using sight-size. You will explore how to prepare a workspace for the sight-size method. Joe will demonstrate three oil paintings, progressing from beginner to intermediate. You will learn to paint a simple pear and still-lifes of multiple objects against different backgrounds. Joe will start with a limited palette, then slowly transition to a full-color palette. This course will help you effectively capture the reality on your canvas and improve your color mixing and painting skills.

Throughout this course, you’ll have access to the NMA community for feedback and critiques to improve your work as you progress.