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home·artworks·A Figure
A Figure by Jean David

plate no. 2577

A Figure

Jean David

oilSurrealismportraitfigureportraitfacegreenabstract

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

  1. step 01

    Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figure (head, neck, shoulders) with charcoal or pencil.

  2. step 02

    Block in the background with dark blues and browns, using loose, expressive brushstrokes.

  3. step 03

    Mix various shades of green and apply them to the face and body, allowing some of the background to show through.

  4. step 04

    Use a lighter green or yellow to add highlights and texture to the figure.

  5. step 05

    Outline the figure with white or light gray to define the edges.

  6. step 06

    Add details to the face, such as eyes, nose, and mouth, using simple lines and shapes.

  7. step 07

    Refine the background by adding splatters or drips of paint for added texture.

  8. 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

  • ·dry brushing
  • ·scumbling
  • ·color mixing
  • ·expressive mark-making
  • ·layering

common pitfalls

  • →overworking the details
  • →using too much paint
  • →creating a flat, lifeless image
  • →not allowing the background to show through

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

  • ·stretched canvas
  • ·acrylic or oil paints
  • ·round brushes
  • ·flat brushes
  • ·palette
  • ·palette knife

optional

  • ·medium (for oil paints)
  • ·varnish
  • ·easel

Use a variety of brush sizes to create different textures. Experiment with different mediums to achieve desired effects.

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related guides

oil painting for beginners →how to learn by studying the masters →
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