plate no. 6076

Louise

William Scott, 1939

oilExpressionismportraitfigureportraittablecupinteriorchair

some experience helpful

This painting provides an opportunity to practice simplified figure drawing and color mixing to achieve skin tones and subtle variations in light and shadow. Students can also learn to create a sense of depth using color and value rather than precise detail.

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 and proportions of the figure, table, and cup.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: background, skin tones, shirt, skirt, table, and chair.
step 03
Mix a range of skin tones using red, yellow, white, and a touch of blue or brown.
step 04
Develop the shadows and highlights on the figure, paying attention to the planes of the face and body.
step 05
Refine the details of the cup and saucer, using subtle variations in color to suggest form.
step 06
Add texture to the table and background with visible brushstrokes.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to create a cohesive composition.
step 08
Add final details and highlights.

color palette

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

secondary · alizarin crimson · raw umber

Skin tones can be achieved by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red and blue. Vary the proportions to create different shades. The blue skirt is a mix of ultramarine blue and a touch of black or burnt umber.

techniques