plate no. 6527

Jocelyn

Gandy Brodie, 1955

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurefacehairclothingperson

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages exploration of color temperature and layering.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, hair, and shoulders.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin layer of blue paint, using visible brushstrokes.
step 03
Establish the main areas of light and shadow on the face with broad strokes of ochre, white, and umber.
step 04
Add darker tones to define the eyes, nose, and mouth, keeping the details minimal.
step 05
Paint the hair using a mix of brown and black, following the general direction of the strands.
step 06
Block in the clothing with a mix of greens, purples, and browns, using loose, expressive brushstrokes.
step 07
Refine the edges and add subtle color variations to create depth and interest.
step 08
Allow to dry and add final touches to enhance the overall expression.

color palette

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

secondary · viridian green · alizarin crimson

Mix ochre and white for highlights on the face. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create darker shadows. Add small amounts of alizarin crimson to warm up the skin tones.

techniques