plate no. 8093

Ferdowsi

canvas, oilImpressionismportraitportraitfigurefaceabstractbluetexture

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and using value to create form within an abstract composition. It also encourages experimentation with color mixing and layering to achieve depth and texture.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic outline of the face on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the darkest areas of the face with a deep blue or black.
step 03
Begin applying broad, directional brushstrokes of lighter blues and grays to define the planes of the face and surrounding area.
step 04
Introduce small amounts of orange/gold to create highlights and visual interest.
step 05
Layer additional brushstrokes, varying the pressure and direction to build texture and depth.
step 06
Refine the shapes and values of the facial features, paying attention to the interplay of light and shadow.
step 07
Add final details and adjust the overall composition as needed.
step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · ivory black

secondary · burnt sienna · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of blue by combining ultramarine blue with white and black. Create the orange/gold highlights by mixing burnt sienna with yellow ochre and a touch of white.

techniques