plate no. 7349

Clown au banjo

Jean Metzinger, 1924

oilNeoclassicismgenre paintingfigureclownbanjocurtainsbuildingfloor tiles

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will allow students to practice smooth blending techniques and color mixing to achieve the subtle gradations in the figure's clothing and face. Students will also learn about composition and creating a focal point.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, banjo, and background elements.
step 02
Block in the main color areas for the figure's clothing, hat, and skin tone.
step 03
Establish the background colors, including the curtains, building, and floor tiles.
step 04
Begin blending the colors on the figure's clothing to create smooth transitions and subtle shading.
step 05
Add details to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, paying attention to the subtle highlights and shadows.
step 06
Paint the banjo, focusing on the details of the strings, frets, and body.
step 07
Refine the background elements, adding details to the curtains, building windows, and floor tiles.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall depth and dimension of the painting.

color palette

primary · turquoise · flesh tone · burnt umber

secondary · rose · yellow ochre · black

Mix turquoise by combining green and blue with a touch of white. Achieve flesh tones by blending red, yellow, and white, adjusting the proportions for warmth or coolness.

techniques