Becks-underpainting

UNDERPAINTING is used to work out the values in a painting before considering the coloring of the piece. Usually done in values of a single hue (monochromatic) it helps to show the forms in terms of their lights and darks only. It also gives the piece some unity as this color will sit underneath all of the colors that go on top. You don't have to go too crazy deciding which color to use (in this case yellow ochre for the base and a greyish purple for the objects) as it will be covered up, but I usually go with a compliment to the overall color of the piece. Underpainting can also be used for glazing techniques.

Another reason I decided to do an underpainting for this piece is that I noticed some irregularities with the drawing and sometimes it's easier for me to work with the form of an object rather than just the line.