plate no. 0813
Apollinaire and His Friends
Marie Laurencin, 1909
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition. It also encourages exploration of expressive line work and stylized representation.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and placement of the figures, dog, and background elements.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas for each figure and the background, focusing on overall tones.
- step 03
Refine the shapes of the figures and add details like facial features and clothing folds.
- step 04
Mix and apply subtle variations in color to create depth and dimension.
- step 05
Add the still life elements and refine the background shapes.
- step 06
Define the edges of the figures and objects with darker lines to enhance their form.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create contrast and visual interest.
- step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition, making sure the colors and shapes are balanced.
color palette
primary · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light
secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · sap green
Achieve the muted tones by mixing primary colors with white and small amounts of complementary colors. Use raw umber to create shadows and depth.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·expressive linework
- ·glazing
- ·limited palette
- ·simplification of forms
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the simplified, stylized look.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Failing to establish a clear focal point.
- →Not paying attention to the overall composition and balance.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 18x24
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·Round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·Flat brush (size 8)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)
- ·Linseed oil or acrylic medium
optional
- ·Easel
- ·Apron
- ·Color wheel
- ·Reference print
Use a canvas with a smooth surface for easier blending. Consider using a limited palette of colors to simplify the mixing process.
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