plate no. 5021

Lipstick

Frantisek Kupka, 1908

oil, canvasArt Nouveau (Modern)genre paintingfigurewomanlipstickmakeupportraitinterior

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in capturing skin tones with visible brushstrokes and creating a sense of depth through subtle color variations. Students can learn to simplify complex forms and focus on capturing the essence of the subject.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, focusing on the overall composition.
step 02
Block in the background with broad strokes of dark blues and greens, creating a sense of depth.
step 03
Establish the main skin tones using a mix of yellows, oranges, and browns, paying attention to the light and shadow.
step 04
Add the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, using smaller brushes and more precise strokes.
step 05
Paint the dress with light colors and subtle variations, adding the green and pink details.
step 06
Mix the red for the lipstick and carefully apply it to the lips, creating a focal point.
step 07
Refine the details and add any final touches, such as highlights and shadows.
step 08
Let the painting dry completely and apply a varnish to protect the surface.

color palette

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

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · pink

Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and white. Use ultramarine blue and white for cooler shadows. Mix red and white for the pink blush.

techniques

·broken color
·scumbling
·layering
·color mixing
·alla prima

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the freshness of the brushstrokes.
→Failing to establish a strong value structure, resulting in a flat image.
→Using colors straight from the tube without mixing, leading to a lack of harmony.
→Ignoring the subtle color variations in the skin tones, resulting in an unnatural appearance.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
·oil paints (yellow ochre, burnt umber, ultramarine blue, titanium white, cadmium red, viridian green)
·palette
·palette knife
·assorted brushes (round and flat)
·linseed oil
·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits