plate no. 5400

Jack

Gosta Adrian-Nilsson, 1915

oilCubismportraitfigureportraitsailorclothinghatcubism

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand geometric abstraction and how to simplify complex forms into basic shapes. It will also improve their skills in color mixing and value control within a limited palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic figure pose and proportions.
step 02
Break down the figure and background into geometric shapes (triangles, rectangles, etc.).
step 03
Outline the shapes with a pencil or fine liner.
step 04
Mix the base colors: a light beige for the background and skin, a light blue for the clothing, and white for the pants and hat.
step 05
Apply the base colors to the corresponding shapes, keeping the tones relatively flat.
step 06
Mix darker shades of blue and beige to create shadows and depth within the shapes.
step 07
Carefully apply the darker shades to the edges and corners of the shapes to define the form.
step 08
Add final details like the key and facial features with a fine brush or pen.

color palette

primary · light beige · light blue · white

secondary · darker blue · darker beige

Mix the darker shades by adding a touch of a darker blue or brown to the base colors. Use white to lighten the base colors for highlights.

techniques

·geometric abstraction
·flat color application
·value shading
·limited palette
·linear perspective

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes
→Using too many colors
→Losing the overall form of the figure
→Uneven color application

materials

surface · watercolor paper 140lb

required

·watercolor paper
·watercolor paints
·round brushes (various sizes)
·pencil
·eraser
·palette

optional

·ruler
·masking tape
·fine liner pen

Using a heavier weight watercolor paper will prevent buckling when applying the paint. Consider using masking tape to create clean edges around the painting.

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