plate no. 2577

A Figure

oilSurrealismportraitfigureportraitfacegreenabstract

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex forms and using expressive brushstrokes to create texture and depth. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing to achieve a unique palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figure (head, neck, shoulders) with charcoal or pencil.
step 02
Block in the background with dark blues and browns, using loose, expressive brushstrokes.
step 03
Mix various shades of green and apply them to the face and body, allowing some of the background to show through.
step 04
Use a lighter green or yellow to add highlights and texture to the figure.
step 05
Outline the figure with white or light gray to define the edges.
step 06
Add details to the face, such as eyes, nose, and mouth, using simple lines and shapes.
step 07
Refine the background by adding splatters or drips of paint for added texture.
step 08
Let dry and add a final layer of varnish if desired.

color palette

primary · viridian green · sap green · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · yellow ochre

Mix greens by combining blues and yellows. Use white to lighten the greens and create highlights. Browns can be created by mixing blues, reds, and yellows.

techniques