plate no. 9250

Girl from California

Helene Schjerfbeck, 1934

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurewomanneutral backgrounddress

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying forms, mixing subtle skin tones, and using visible brushstrokes to create texture and depth. It also provides practice in capturing a likeness with minimal detail.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin layer of neutral gray-brown tones.
step 03
Establish the main areas of light and shadow on the face and body using simplified shapes.
step 04
Mix and apply skin tones, focusing on subtle variations in color and value.
step 05
Add details to the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth, using dark and light tones.
step 06
Paint the dress with broad, visible brushstrokes, capturing the folds and highlights.
step 07
Refine the edges and details, paying attention to the overall balance and harmony of the painting.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the sense of depth and form.

color palette

primary · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt sienna · alizarin crimson · ivory black

Mix skin tones by combining white, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt sienna or alizarin crimson. Use raw umber and white for the background, adjusting the value as needed.

techniques