plate no. 0453

Děvče v růžových šatech

Josef Capek, 1916

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfiguredresshatchairgeometric

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand geometric abstraction and how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. It also provides practice in color mixing and creating subtle value changes within a limited palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, chair, and background.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, focusing on the overall value structure.
step 03
Refine the shapes and edges, paying attention to the geometric forms.
step 04
Mix and apply the subtle value gradations within each color area to create depth.
step 05
Add the details of the hat and dress, such as the floral pattern and scalloped edges.
step 06
Define the shadows and highlights to enhance the three-dimensionality of the figure.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast as needed.
step 08
Add final details and refine edges.

color palette

primary · titanium white · ivory black · cadmium red light

secondary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of pink by combining white, red, and a touch of black. Create the grays by mixing black and white, and adjust the temperature with small amounts of yellow ochre or ultramarine blue. The blue of the hat is ultramarine with white.

techniques

·geometric abstraction
·color mixing
·value studies
·blending
·layering

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes and losing the geometric simplicity.
→Using colors that are too saturated or bright.
→Failing to create subtle value gradations within each color area.
→Not paying attention to the overall composition and balance.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
·acrylic or oil paints (titanium white, ivory black, cadmium red light, ultramarine blue, yellow ochre)
·assorted brushes (round and flat)
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil or acrylic medium
·rags
·odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)