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Master Studies

 
Studying 

I believe that practice is the best form of learning, and master copying is the most effective to practice while studying. Since we always (aspire to) learn, I find that copying a masterpiece that inspires you is an excellent method to achieve this. 

In essence, master copying is not about creating perfect replicas; instead, it's about gaining a deeper understanding of artistic principles and techniques. It's a valuable tool for any artist seeking to improve their skills and expand their knowledge. 

From time to time, I will update this post with my new master studies.

Here are some:

May 2025

After J.C. Leyendecker painting "Couple on Deck Chairs. 1904"

I have been fascinated by the works and biography of this great Golden Age artist for a long time. Recently, I finally read a beautiful book titled simply, "J.C. Leyendecker", written by Laurence S. Cutler and Judy Goffman Cutler. His name and influence were most prolific; his private life was kept to himself. Nothing original was meant to remain after his death. Fortunately for us, many of his works have survived. The story of the man who did not burn Leyendecker's (and his own) lifetime work, sadly, remains uncovered and forgotten. 

I am particularly fond of this small painting of his from 1904, likely depicting Charles Beach. The artist's ability to convey more than meets the eye at first glance, with hidden messages and sophisticated poses within the composition, is truly stunning. I admire those hands; they are telling a story. I am happy to try and learn from his artistry. 

An alla prima master study in oil on cardboard 24 x 30 cm. View the finished version in my gallery.

Exhibitions:
- Driedaagse Expo at Stalhuus, June 2026, Hollum


More Master studies:

April 2026

After the "Portrait of a young woman" by Vilhelm Hammershøi, created in 1885. The original artwork is part of The Hirschsprung Collection in Copenhagen.  
I have long been captivated by the composition and the serene emotion conveyed by the sitter, who is Hammershøi's sister, Anna. Recently, I decided to create a master study based on this work. I painted this piece on a canvas that is nearly half the size of the original.  
An alla prima master study in oil on canvas 50 x 60 cm. View the finished version in my gallery.




March 2026

After the "En ung brystsyg pige" by Vilhelm Hammershøi, 1888. The original is part of the collection at Kunstmuseum Brandts. The striking beauty of this portrait lies in its simplicity, tonality, fragility and finesse. I loved working on this study. 
I might be mistaken, but I believe the Danish term "brystsyg" translates to "ill with tuberculosis". At the very end of my study, I took some creative liberties with the poor girl's health - altering her ill torso and giving her a new lease on life in my version.  
An alla prima master study in oil on canvas board 30 x 25 cm. View the finished version in my gallery.
 




December 2025

After the "A Woman Ironing" by Edgar Degas, 1873. The original is in the collection of The Met. This beautiful chiaroscuro impressionist painting strikes with its simplicity, which transforms into intricate complexity when it is attempted to be replicated. I love such challenges.  
An alla prima master study in oil on canvas board 50 x 40 cm. View the finished version in my gallery.




   
 April 2025


After the "Emma Zorn Reading, 1887" by Anders Zorn. An alla prima master study in oil on canvas 30 x 40 cm. View the finished version in my gallery.



March 2025

After the Portrait of Frans Erens by Isaac Israels. An alla prima master study in oil on cardboard 20 x 15 cm. View the finished version in my gallery.


Exhibitions:
- Driedaagse Expo at Stalhuus, June 2026, Hollum


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