plate no. 6588
Autumn Leaves
Torii Kotondo, 1934
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color layering and precise line work, as well as understanding flat planes of color and pattern creation.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
1
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the outline of the figure and the main folds of the kimono.
- step 02
Block in the background with a light, even tone.
- step 03
Apply the base color for the skin, leaving highlights.
- step 04
Paint the hair with a flat, dark color, defining the hairline.
- step 05
Begin layering the colors of the kimono, starting with the red base.
- step 06
Add the leaf patterns, varying the colors and shapes.
- step 07
Define the details of the face and hands with delicate lines.
- step 08
Add final touches and refine the colors.
color palette
primary · red · white · black · pink
secondary · blue · yellow · orange · purple
Mix various shades of red by adding white or black. Achieve the leaf colors by mixing primary colors with white for lighter tones.
techniques
- ·flat washes
- ·color layering
- ·precise linework
- ·pattern creation
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →overworking the colors
- →losing the flatness of the planes
- →inaccurate proportions
- →muddy colors
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paints or gouache
- ·fine detail brushes
- ·watercolor paper
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
optional
- ·ruler
- ·tracing paper
- ·color pencils
Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling. Use soft brushes for smooth application.
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