plate no. 8206
Harlequin
Juan Gris, 1922
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand color blocking and geometric abstraction. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes that make up the composition.
- step 02
Identify the main color areas and block them in with light washes.
- step 03
Gradually build up the colors, adding darker values to create depth.
- step 04
Refine the shapes and edges, paying attention to the overlapping planes.
- step 05
Add details such as the facial features and the objects on the table.
- step 06
Adjust the colors and values to match the original painting.
- step 07
Add any final touches or highlights.
- step 08
Allow to dry completely.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · purple-grey · olive green
secondary · white · brown
Mix the purple-grey by combining ultramarine blue, burnt umber, and white. Vary the yellow ochre with touches of brown or white to create subtle shifts in tone.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·layering
- ·flat washes
- ·simplification of form
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes
- →Using too many colors
- →Losing the overall composition
- →Not paying attention to value relationships
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paper
- ·watercolor paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·water container
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
optional
- ·ruler
- ·masking tape
- ·color wheel
Using a heavier weight watercolor paper will prevent buckling. Consider using masking tape to create clean edges.
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