plate no. 4919

J.A.D.

Manuela Sambo, 2013

oilExpressionismnude painting (nu)figureportraitwomanpatternschairornaments

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, color mixing, and creating patterns. It also encourages precision in line work for the decorative elements.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on the figure's pose and the placement of the background circles.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: the skin tone, hair, background, and chair.
step 03
Refine the skin tone with subtle variations of blue, green, and white.
step 04
Add the details of the face, paying attention to the simplified features.
step 05
Carefully paint the background circles, varying the colors and patterns within each.
step 06
Use a fine brush to add the intricate tattoo-like designs on the figure's body.
step 07
Define the outlines and details of the chair.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create depth.

color palette

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

secondary · cadmium yellow · viridian green · cadmium red

The skin tone is achieved by mixing white, blue, and a touch of umber. The background uses variations of yellow ochre and burnt umber. The greens are obtained by mixing blue and yellow.

techniques

·color mixing
·portraiture
·pattern creation
·fine line work
·glazing

common pitfalls

→Getting the skin tone too uniform; use subtle variations.
→Making the background circles too perfect; allow for slight imperfections.
→Rushing the tattoo-like designs; take your time to ensure accuracy.
→Overworking the details; maintain a balance between detail and simplicity.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas 16x20
·acrylic or oil paints
·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
·fine liner brush (size 0 or 1)
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil (if using oil paints)
·odorless mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)

optional

·medium gloss
·easel
·color wheel

Using a canvas with a smooth surface will make it easier to paint the fine details. Acrylics are more beginner-friendly due to their faster drying time.

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