plate no. 6041

In the artist's studio

Leon Bakst, 1908

oilArt Nouveau (Modern)genre paintingfiguresartiststudiopaintinginteriorclothing

some experience helpful

This painting offers a chance to practice simplified forms and color blocking, as well as creating a sense of depth through layering and subtle color variations. Students can learn to capture the essence of a scene 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 main figures and the easel, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the background and the figures' clothing.
step 03
Add the darker tones to define the shapes and create shadows.
step 04
Introduce secondary colors to add depth and interest to the clothing.
step 05
Paint the details of the faces and hands, keeping them simple and stylized.
step 06
Add the patterns on the clothing, such as the stripes and the plaid.
step 07
Refine the edges and add any final details.
step 08
Allow to dry.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red

Mix burnt sienna and white for the skin tones. Use ultramarine blue and white for the blue dress. Mix black and burnt sienna for the dark clothing. Use white to lighten the colors and create highlights.

techniques