plate no. 7012

Jeune fille, l'hiver

Jean Paul Lemieux, 1977

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurewintersnowskyhat

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice simplified portraiture and atmospheric perspective. Students can learn to create a sense of depth using subtle color variations and value changes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure and the horizon line.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color: the sky, snow, and the figure's clothing.
step 03
Mix a range of blues and grays for the sky, gradually lightening the color as you approach the horizon.
step 04
Add subtle variations in the snow using cool grays and whites, suggesting shadows and texture.
step 05
Develop the figure's face, paying attention to the simplified shapes and subtle color variations.
step 06
Define the details of the hat and scarf using darker values.
step 07
Add the distant figures to enhance the sense of depth.
step 08
Refine the brushstrokes and edges to create a cohesive and expressive painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt umber · cadmium red

Mix blues and white for the sky, adding small amounts of yellow ochre for warmth. Use burnt umber and white to create cool grays for the snow. Mix yellow ochre and red for the skin tones.

techniques