plate no. 9887

Geneviève Camax-Zoegger

Suzanne Valadon, 1936

oilPost-Impressionismportraitportraitwomanfigurehairclothingchair

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and using color to define form. It also encourages exploration of expressive brushwork and simplified shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Establish the main color blocks for the skin, hair, clothing, and background.
step 03
Begin layering colors within each area, focusing on capturing the subtle shifts in value and hue.
step 04
Use visible brushstrokes to add texture and dimension to the painting.
step 05
Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create depth.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to achieve a harmonious composition.
step 08
Add final details and refine edges as needed.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · cadmium red · viridian · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · cadmium yellow light

Mix skin tones using yellow ochre, cadmium red, and white, adding small amounts of blue or umber to adjust the temperature. Achieve the green in the dress by mixing viridian with yellow ochre and a touch of blue.

techniques