plate no. 6963

Dos Cabezas

Oswaldo Guayasamin, 1987

oilExpressionismportraitabstractportraitheadsgeometric shapesreflection

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and understanding how to create depth using a limited color palette and subtle value changes.

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 composition, focusing on the large geometric forms.
step 02
Establish the horizon line and the reflection.
step 03
Apply a base layer of the dominant warm brown/orange color to the entire canvas.
step 04
Begin layering in darker and lighter shades of brown and orange to define the shapes and create depth.
step 05
Introduce the secondary colors (purple/violet) in specific areas to add contrast and interest.
step 06
Refine the details of the eyes and other facial features.
step 07
Add texture with visible brushstrokes, especially in the background.
step 08
Adjust values and colors as needed to achieve the desired effect.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · raw umber · yellow ochre

secondary · dioxazine purple · cadmium orange

Mix different shades of brown by combining burnt sienna, raw umber, and yellow ochre. Use white to lighten the colors and black to darken them. Create the purple by mixing red and blue.

techniques

·color layering
·geometric abstraction
·limited palette
·dry brushing
·scumbling

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes and losing the overall composition.
→Using too many colors and creating a muddy effect.
→Failing to establish a clear value structure.
→Ignoring the texture and creating a flat, lifeless painting.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic or oil paints (burnt sienna, raw umber, yellow ochre, dioxazine purple, cadmium orange, titanium white, black)
·assorted brushes (flat and round)
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil or acrylic medium
·rags
·turpentine or water (for cleaning)