plate no. 2275

Jeune Fille à la Guirlande de Fleurs

Marie Laurencin, 1935

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigureflowersfoliagedresshair

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying forms, mixing muted colors, and creating soft, expressive brushstrokes. Students will also learn to balance abstract shapes with representational elements.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figure, flowers, and background.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes of paint.
step 03
Gradually build up layers of color, focusing on the subtle shifts in tone.
step 04
Define the facial features and details of the flowers with small, controlled brushstrokes.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes to create a sense of softness and atmosphere.
step 07
Add final details, such as the pearls and the texture of the hair.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · cadmium red · yellow ochre · cerulean blue

secondary · raw umber · alizarin crimson · sap green

Achieve the muted tones by mixing complementary colors and adding white. Use yellow ochre and raw umber to create the skin tones. Mix cerulean blue and white for the dress.

techniques