plate no. 3370

Lilian

David Bomberg, 1932

oil, canvasExpressionismnude painting (nu)figureportraitnudewomantorsoshadows

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and capturing form through value and color temperature changes. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic proportions and pose of the figure using a thin wash of burnt umber.
step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the background and shadows with a mix of burnt umber and black.
step 03
Block in the main areas of light on the figure with a mix of white, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt sienna.
step 04
Gradually build up the form by layering different values and color temperatures, paying attention to the direction of the brushstrokes.
step 05
Use thicker paint and more visible brushstrokes in the areas of strongest light and detail.
step 06
Soften edges and blend areas where necessary to create a sense of form and depth.
step 07
Add subtle highlights and details to the face and torso to capture the likeness of the subject.
step 08
Refine the overall composition and adjust values as needed to create a cohesive and expressive painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · black · burnt sienna · cadmium red

Mix white with yellow ochre and a touch of burnt sienna for the skin tones. Use burnt umber and black for the dark background and shadows. Add small amounts of cadmium red for warmth in the skin.

techniques