plate no. 2678

Gustav Schiefler

Emil Nolde, 1915

oilExpressionismportraitportraitmanhatglassesmustacheformal wear

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and understanding how to use color to create form and mood. It also provides practice in simplifying complex subjects into basic shapes and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure, hat, and background, focusing on proportions and composition.
step 02
Block in the darkest values of the background and clothing with a dark green/black mixture.
step 03
Establish the mid-tones and highlights on the face, using a mix of purples, pinks, and whites.
step 04
Add the details of the hat, using black, white, and gray tones to create form.
step 05
Paint the mustache and glasses with brighter colors, adding small details.
step 06
Refine the edges and details, paying attention to the expressive brushstrokes.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the depth and dimension.
step 08
Allow to dry and add a varnish if desired.

color palette

primary · black · white · purple · yellow

secondary · green · pink · gray

Mix dark greens and blacks for the background by combining black, green, and a touch of brown. Achieve the skin tones by mixing purple, pink, white, and small amounts of yellow and green. Use white to lighten the colors and create highlights.

techniques