plate no. 5076

Children's Portraits

Johannes Itten, 1922

oil, woodNaïve Art (Primitivism)portraitportraitchildtoysgeometric shapesinteriorflowers

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice layering colors, creating flat planes of color, and understanding how to depict a figure within a stylized environment. It also encourages experimentation with color relationships and pattern creation.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and objects.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and then the figure's clothing.
step 03
Add details to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, using subtle color variations.
step 04
Paint the geometric shapes and toys, paying attention to their colors and proportions.
step 05
Create the floral background using small brushstrokes and varying shades of blue and green.
step 06
Add the text banner at the top, carefully copying the lettering style.
step 07
Refine the details and add any final touches, such as highlights and shadows.
step 08
Varnish the painting to protect the colors and add a glossy finish.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · cadmium red · titanium white

secondary · sap green · violet · burnt sienna

Mix various shades of blue by combining ultramarine with white or a touch of violet. Achieve the gold background by layering yellow ochre with touches of burnt sienna and white for highlights.

techniques