
plate no. 8798
Victor Brauner, 1961
Recreating this painting will help students practice color mixing and layering to achieve a textured, aged look, as well as simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Sketch the basic shapes and composition: the square background, the figure, the circular face, and the wooden elements.
Block in the background with a light beige/tan color, creating texture with visible brushstrokes.
Paint the wooden elements with dark browns and blacks, paying attention to the wood grain texture.
Add the brick details above the face with light brown and white.
Paint the circular face with a white base, then add the colored geometric shapes around the edges.
Add the facial features: the blue nose, the eyes, and the small mouth.
Paint the figure below the face with a similar beige/tan color as the background, adding subtle shading.
Add the inscription at the bottom with dark paint.
color palette
primary · beige · brown · white · blue
secondary · yellow · pink · green
Achieve the aged beige by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of burnt umber. Mix the pastel colors by adding white to the secondary colors.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Using a textured canvas can enhance the aged look. Acrylics are recommended for faster drying time.
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