plate no. 7642

Man from Touraine

Juan Gris, 1918

oil, canvasCubismportraitfigureportraitnewspapercubismgeometric shapes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes and how to use a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition. It also provides practice in precise line work and color blocking.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes and their placement on the canvas, paying attention to proportions.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the darkest values.
step 03
Gradually build up the lighter values, layering colors to create subtle variations.
step 04
Define the edges of the shapes with clean, crisp lines.
step 05
Add details such as the buttons, facial features, and newspaper text.
step 06
Refine the colors and values, ensuring a harmonious balance throughout the painting.
step 07
Add any final details or adjustments as needed.
step 08
Allow the painting to dry completely.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · payne's gray

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue

Mix the various grays by combining Payne's Gray and Titanium White. Achieve the orange hues by mixing Raw Sienna and Burnt Umber. Add small amounts of Ultramarine Blue to darken or cool colors.

techniques

·color blocking
·geometric abstraction
·layering
·hard-edge painting
·value study

common pitfalls

→Overcomplicating the shapes and details.
→Using too many colors, which can disrupt the harmony of the painting.
→Failing to accurately represent the values, which can flatten the composition.
→Not paying attention to the relationships between the shapes, which can lead to a disjointed result.