plate no. 8199

In another window

Konstantin Vasilyev, 1973

oilSymbolismgenre paintingfigureswinterbuildingwindowiciclesportrait

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly rendering realistic skin tones and facial features, and in creating depth through subtle value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 25 hrs

approach — 7 steps

step 01
Create a preliminary sketch outlining the main shapes and composition.
step 02
Block in the background elements, such as the wooden wall and window, using diluted paint.
step 03
Establish the basic skin tones for the figures, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Begin layering the clothing, focusing on the patterns and textures.
step 05
Refine the facial features, adding details to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Add details to the background, such as the icicles and frost patterns on the window.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · cadmium red · ivory black

Mix various shades of blue and brown to create the muted tones of the wood and clothing. Use white to lighten the skin tones and create highlights. Add small amounts of red and yellow to warm the skin tones.

techniques