plate no. 5632

Artist's world

Georgi Kovachev, 1987

oilExpressionismportraitfigureportraitcandleabstractobjectsclothing

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing, layering, and creating abstract backgrounds. It also provides practice in depicting a figure with simplified forms and expressive brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure and the main elements in the background.
step 02
Apply a thin wash of a neutral color to the entire canvas as an underpainting.
step 03
Block in the main color areas of the figure (dress, skin, hair) using simplified shapes.
step 04
Start building the background with layers of abstract shapes and colors, using a variety of brushstrokes.
step 05
Refine the details of the figure, paying attention to the proportions and facial features.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Introduce small details and textures to the background to create visual interest.
step 08
Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · pink · orange · white · black

secondary · blue · green · yellow

Achieve the pink hues by mixing red and white. Create variations of orange by mixing yellow and red, and adjust with white or brown for different shades.

techniques