plate no. 9229

Man, Girl and Cock

Vicente Manansala, 1953

oilCubismportraitfiguresroosterportraitcubismgeometric shapesrural scene

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships within a limited palette and how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes. It also provides practice in layering paint and creating texture with visible brushstrokes.

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 composition, focusing on the geometric forms of the figures and background.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, starting with the background.
step 03
Gradually build up the colors in layers, adding more detail and definition to the figures and rooster.
step 04
Use thicker paint and visible brushstrokes to create texture and add interest.
step 05
Pay attention to the color relationships between the different shapes and areas.
step 06
Refine the details of the faces and the rooster's features.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create depth.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · viridian green · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue

Achieve the muted tones by mixing the primary colors with white and small amounts of the secondary colors. Use yellow ochre and burnt sienna as a base for many of the skin tones and background elements.

techniques