plate no. 2812
Chagrins D'Amour. Kusaie, Est Carolines
Paul Jacoulet, 1940
some experience helpful
This painting provides practice in color blocking and creating smooth gradations. Students will learn to simplify complex forms into basic shapes and apply flat washes of color.
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 main shapes: the woman's face and body, the bird, and the surrounding foliage.
- step 02
Divide the composition into distinct color areas.
- step 03
Begin with the background, applying a flat wash of light blue.
- step 04
Block in the main colors of the woman's skin, hair, and clothing.
- step 05
Paint the bird using shades of pink and green, paying attention to the feather details.
- step 06
Add the leaves and flowers, varying the colors slightly to create depth.
- step 07
Outline the shapes with a fine brush to define the forms.
- step 08
Add final details like the eyes, lips, and patterns on the flowers.
color palette
primary · pink · green · light blue · beige
secondary · red · yellow · white · black
Mix pinks by adding white to red. Achieve the skin tone by mixing beige with hints of pink and yellow. Vary greens by adding yellow or blue.
techniques
- ·flat wash
- ·color blocking
- ·outlining
- ·blending
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early.
- →Creating muddy colors by overmixing.
- →Inconsistent line weights in the outlines.
- →Ignoring the underlying structure of the forms.
materials
surface · Watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·Watercolor paints or gouache
- ·Round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·Watercolor paper (140lb)
- ·Palette
- ·Water container
- ·Pencil
- ·Eraser
- ·Ruler
optional
- ·Masking fluid
- ·Palette knife
- ·Tracing paper
Using high-quality watercolor paper will prevent buckling and allow for smoother washes. Gouache can be used for a more opaque finish.
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