plate no. 6615
Alexei Kruchenykh
Mikhail Larionov, 1912
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for practicing expressive linework and capturing a likeness through simplified forms. Students will develop skills in contour drawing and using bold strokes to create texture and define shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
1
brushwork visibility
5
value contrast
5
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 3 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, shoulders, and suit.
- step 02
Focus on capturing the proportions and distinctive features of the face.
- step 03
Use bold, confident lines to define the contours of the figure.
- step 04
Add details like the eyes, nose, mouth, and hair with varying line weights.
- step 05
Fill in the suit and tie with patterns of thick and thin lines.
- step 06
Add the stars and other abstract elements around the head.
- step 07
Review the overall composition and adjust lines as needed to enhance the expression.
- step 08
Add final details and refine the linework.
color palette
primary · black
secondary · white
This is a monochromatic drawing, so no color mixing is needed.
techniques
- ·Contour drawing
- ·Cross-hatching
- ·Varying line weight
- ·Expressive linework
- ·Simplification of form
common pitfalls
- →Hesitant or scratchy lines
- →Overcomplicating the details
- →Losing the overall proportions
- →Not varying the line weight enough
materials
surface · Drawing paper
required
- ·Pencil
- ·Eraser
- ·Fine-tipped pen (e.g., Micron)
- ·Drawing paper
- ·Ruler
optional
- ·Tracing paper
- ·India ink
Use a smooth drawing paper for best results. Experiment with different pen sizes to achieve varying line weights.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
in this vein
