plate no. 5543

Composition I

Mark Rothko, 1931

oilExpressionismportraitfiguretablestill lifeinteriorcafeportrait

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors, simplifying forms, and creating a sense of atmosphere with a limited palette. It also provides practice in capturing the essence of a subject rather than precise detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main shapes and composition: the figure, table, and background elements.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color with thin washes, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 03
Gradually build up the colors in layers, allowing each layer to dry slightly before applying the next.
step 04
Define the shapes of the figure and objects with thicker paint and more distinct brushstrokes.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Refine the details of the face and clothing, but avoid overworking them.
step 07
Add the details of the objects on the table.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · raw umber · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna

Mix raw umber and ultramarine blue to create the muted blues and grays. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the warmer tones in the background and highlights.

techniques