plate no. 9530
Girl untying her sandal
Yiannis Moralis, 1973
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for learning about simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and using a limited color palette to create a strong visual impact. Students will practice accurate color mixing and hard-edge painting techniques.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the figure and background.
- step 02
Divide the figure and background into the simplified geometric forms.
- step 03
Mix the primary colors: dark brown, light brown, off-white, and yellow.
- step 04
Begin filling in the largest areas of color, starting with the background.
- step 05
Carefully paint the figure, paying attention to the shapes and edges.
- step 06
Add the small details like the sandal and the line indicating the breast.
- step 07
Refine the edges and shapes as needed to match the original painting.
- step 08
Add the small dot on the figure.
color palette
primary · dark brown · off-white · yellow
secondary · light brown · gray
The light brown can be achieved by mixing the dark brown with white and a touch of yellow. The gray is a mix of white and black.
techniques
- ·hard-edge painting
- ·color blocking
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·limited palette
- ·flat color application
common pitfalls
- →Inaccurate proportions in the initial sketch.
- →Uneven color application.
- →Blending colors where hard edges are required.
- →Overworking the painting with unnecessary details.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints (dark brown, off-white, yellow, black)
- ·round brush #2
- ·flat brush #6
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·ruler
- ·masking tape
Using a matte medium can help achieve a flat, even finish.
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