plate no. 0359

Edvard Westermarck

Magnus Enckell, 1913

oilFauvismportraitportraitfigurebooksdeskinterior

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color temperature and how to use visible brushstrokes to create form. It also provides practice in portraiture and depicting a complex interior scene.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Establish the main areas of light and shadow with a thin wash of color.
step 03
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on the overall color relationships.
step 04
Develop the details of the face, paying attention to the subtle shifts in color and value.
step 05
Add details to the background elements, such as the books and desk objects.
step 06
Refine the brushwork, using bold strokes to create texture and form.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve a harmonious effect.
step 08
Add final highlights and details.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · cadmium red · yellow ochre

secondary · titanium white · alizarin crimson · viridian green

Mix browns by combining burnt umber with blues and reds. Achieve skin tones by blending reds, yellows, and browns with white. Use blues and purples to create shadows.

techniques