plate no. 8176
Corporal J. M. Robins, Women's Auxiliary Air Force
Laura Knight, 1941
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones, as well as understanding how to depict textures of different materials like fabric and metal.
technical profile
palette complexity
4
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a light sketch outlining the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and key elements.
- step 02
Establish the background with broad, blended strokes of muted colors.
- step 03
Block in the main colors of the uniform, helmet, and gas mask, paying attention to the overall value structure.
- step 04
Begin refining the facial features, focusing on accurate placement and subtle value changes to create form.
- step 05
Develop the details of the uniform, including the insignia, buttons, and straps, using smaller brushes.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to the gas mask and other metallic elements to create a sense of depth and realism.
- step 07
Refine the hands and other details, paying attention to the subtle variations in color and texture.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the overall composition, ensuring that the focal point is well-defined and the colors are harmonious.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light
secondary · yellow ochre · olive green · ivory black
Mix various shades of purple by combining ultramarine blue and cadmium red light. Achieve the olive green by mixing yellow ochre and raw umber with a touch of ultramarine. Use titanium white to lighten colors and create highlights.
techniques
- ·portraiture
- ·blending
- ·layering
- ·color mixing
- ·rendering textures
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions of the figure
- →Overly harsh or muddy color mixtures
- →Neglecting subtle value changes in the face
- →Failing to capture the textures of the different materials
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·oil paints (ultramarine blue, raw umber, titanium white, cadmium red light, yellow ochre, olive green, ivory black)
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat, sizes 2-8)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
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