plate no. 9141
In the Bistro
suitable for beginners
This painting is great for practicing simplified forms and color blocking. Students can learn to create a portrait with minimal shading and focus on capturing the essence of the subject.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
2
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure, table, and objects, paying attention to proportions.
- step 02
Block in the background with a flat layer of red, adding subtle vertical variations.
- step 03
Paint the figure's skin with a light tone, using minimal shading to define form.
- step 04
Fill in the blue dress, adding a darker shade for the folds.
- step 05
Paint the black table and add the red purse.
- step 06
Add the white cup and saucer, paying attention to the ellipses.
- step 07
Paint the details of the face, including the eyes, lips, and hair.
- step 08
Add final details like the necklace and the objects on the table.
color palette
primary · red · blue · white · black
secondary · flesh tones · green
Mix flesh tones by combining white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. Create the blue by mixing a primary blue with a touch of black or purple for depth.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·flat application
- ·simplified forms
- ·basic shading
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shading
- →Getting the proportions wrong
- →Using too many colors
- →Not simplifying the forms enough
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints (red, blue, white, black, yellow ochre)
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
Acrylics are recommended for beginners due to their faster drying time and ease of cleanup. Use a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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