plate no. 4640
Dancing Figure (Snow Camellia)
Kaoru Kawano, 1950
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure, including the kimono, veil, and facial features.
- step 02
Block in the background with a solid layer of dark green paint.
- step 03
Apply the base color for the kimono, a textured green, using short, directional strokes.
- step 04
Add the black flower shapes to the kimono, paying attention to their placement and form.
- step 05
Paint the veil with a light gray, using a dry brush technique to create a textured effect.
- step 06
Add the red accents to the kimono and collar.
- step 07
Paint the face with a light skin tone, keeping the features simple.
- step 08
Refine the details and edges of the figure and veil.
color palette
primary · dark green · light gray · skin tone
secondary · black · red
The textured green of the kimono can be achieved by mixing green with a touch of black and white, and applying it with short, broken strokes. The light gray of the veil can be created by mixing white with a small amount of black.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·dry brush texture
- ·simplified shapes
- ·directional strokes
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details
- →Using too many colors
- →Not simplifying the forms enough
- →Ignoring the texture of the veil and kimono
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas
- ·Acrylic paints (dark green, light gray, skin tone, black, red)
- ·Round brushes (#2, #6)
- ·Flat brush (#4)
- ·Palette
- ·Water container
- ·Paper towels
- ·Pencil
optional
- ·Palette knife
- ·Medium matte
Using a textured canvas can enhance the effect of the dry brush technique. Acrylic paints are recommended for their quick drying time and ease of use.
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