plate no. 3134

Girl

oilCubismportraitfigureportraitdraperyhairhandface

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify forms into geometric shapes and use color to define planes. It will also provide practice in mixing subtle color variations and creating a cohesive color scheme.

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
Divide the face and body into geometric planes, simplifying the forms.
step 03
Block in the main color areas for the background, hair, skin, and drapery.
step 04
Mix the subtle color variations for each plane, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 05
Apply the paint in flat, slightly textured strokes, following the direction of the planes.
step 06
Refine the edges and details of the face and hands.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to achieve a harmonious composition.

color palette

primary · raw umber · ultramarine blue · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of skin tones using white, raw umber, and a touch of red and blue. Achieve the blue-grey background by mixing ultramarine blue with white and a touch of raw umber.

techniques