Masterpiece: How to Copy your Favorite Painting
Have you ever attempted to replicate one of your favorite masterpiece paintings?
If so, then this article is for you.
You may only duplicate a painting that is in the public domain. When you're done, to make it clear that it is an authentic copy and not a fake, sign it with your name as well as the original artist's name such as "John W., after Leonardo da Vinci".
Da Vinci's Mona Lisa is the most copied painting in the world.
Follow the research of many books and online resources about the master and his techniques; Gather the necessary materials such as paints, brushes, canvas, etc.
Choose the right reference photo or image of the painting.
Analyze and study the painting’s color palette, composition, brushstrokes, etc.
Here are 6 easy steps to re-creating a masterpiece painting…
- Find the best quality image to use as a reference. Often libraries have wonderful, large books with good images. Start there.
- Avoid copying a piece from a computer screen, as the colors and textures are even harder to observe than on a page in a book.
- Create a sketch. Use the grid method to draw an accurate copy of the masterpiece, or feel free to draw free-hand if you prefer
- Use a canvas of similar size to the original, if possible. This helps with proportions.
- Find out what media was used on the original painting, use the same one.
- Select just the main part of the original piece to copy. Try to ignore all of the details in the background. Focus on the main subject, or even just a part of the main subject.
When we recreate something that a master made, we must focus on even the smallest details that often go unnoticed with a casual look.
Copying a painting teaches quality control.
Until you begin to copy a painting you can never fully understand another artist's technique, color mixtures, or process. Without copying paintings from master artists, we would have very little idea what their palettes may have looked like.
So, the next time you're feeling uninspired in your art, remember that it's okay to copy a masterpiece. Put your own spin on things and create something truly fun and unique. Who knows? You might just create the next Mona Lisa!
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