plate no. 7161

Athlete

William H. Johnson, 1940

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)portraitfigureportraitchairclothinginteriorperson

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in simplifying complex forms and using bold brushstrokes to create texture and definition. Students can learn to mix skin tones and create a sense of depth with limited color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and chair, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Block in the background colors: the green and the tan.
step 03
Establish the main skin tone using a base color, then add highlights and shadows with darker and lighter shades.
step 04
Paint the white tank top, noting the subtle shadows and highlights to give it form.
step 05
Block in the yellow for the chair and begin adding the darker lines to define its structure.
step 06
Paint the plaid pattern of the clothing, paying attention to the perspective and how the lines converge.
step 07
Add details to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, using small brushstrokes.
step 08
Refine the edges and add any final details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white · viridian green

secondary · black · raw sienna · ultramarine blue

Mix skin tones by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and titanium white. Use viridian green and yellow ochre for the background. Darken colors with burnt umber or black, and lighten with titanium white.

techniques