plate no. 0768

Děvče v červeném klobouku

Josef Capek, 1915

oilExpressionismportraitportraitwomanhatdressfiguregreen background

suitable for beginners

This painting is great for learning about simplifying forms and color blocking. Students can practice creating smooth gradients and defining shapes with clear edges.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, hat, and background.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: green for the background, blue for the dress, pink for the face, and black/red for the hat.
step 03
Refine the shapes and edges of the figure and hat, paying attention to the angles and curves.
step 04
Add subtle shading and highlights to create depth and dimension.
step 05
Mix and apply the skin tones, focusing on the subtle variations in color.
step 06
Define the features of the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 07
Add the small details, such as the button on the dress and the braid.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · viridian green · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · burnt sienna · ivory black

Mix different shades of green by combining viridian green and white. Create skin tones by mixing white, cadmium red, and a touch of burnt sienna. Adjust the saturation and value with white and black.

techniques