plate no. 0362

Figure Symbolizing the Asiatic Race

Diego Rivera, 1951

fresco, polystyreneMuralismallegorical paintingfigurewaterfrogspeopleallegoryrace

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, complex composition, and color mixing to achieve realistic skin tones and subtle variations in light and shadow.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the central figure and surrounding elements.
step 02
Refine the sketch, paying attention to the proportions and anatomy of the figure and the details of the surrounding objects.
step 03
Apply a base layer of color to the entire canvas, using thin washes to establish the overall color scheme.
step 04
Begin building up the values and details, working from dark to light and focusing on the areas of greatest contrast.
step 05
Mix colors to match the skin tones, using layers of glazes to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Add details to the surrounding objects, such as the frogs, plants, and other figures, using a variety of brushstrokes to create texture and interest.
step 07
Refine the details and adjust the values as needed to create a cohesive and balanced composition.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · viridian green · cadmium red light · titanium white

Mix yellow ochre and burnt sienna for skin tones, adding small amounts of ultramarine blue to create shadows. Use viridian green and yellow ochre for the frogs, and cadmium red light for highlights on the skin.

techniques