plate no. 7463
Muž s plnovousem
Josef Capek, 1917
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes and practice applying subtle value changes to create depth and form. It also provides an opportunity to explore abstract composition and the use of text in art.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to the proportions of the figure and the placement of the text.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the darkest values and working towards the lighter ones.
- step 03
Refine the shapes and add details, such as the buttons, hat, and facial features.
- step 04
Carefully blend the edges of the shapes to create smooth transitions and subtle value changes.
- step 05
Add the text and other details in the background, using a fine brush.
- step 06
Adjust the values and colors as needed to create a cohesive and balanced composition.
- step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and form.
- step 08
Let it dry and add a varnish.
color palette
primary · gray · white · black · yellow
secondary · red-orange · dark brown
Mix various shades of gray by combining white and black. Use burnt umber or raw umber to create warmer grays. Achieve the red-orange by mixing red and yellow with a touch of brown.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·value shading
- ·color mixing
- ·blocking in
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Oversimplifying the shapes and losing the sense of form.
- →Creating harsh lines instead of smooth transitions.
- →Using too much color and losing the subtle value changes.
- →Ignoring the proportions of the figure.
- →Not paying attention to the placement of the text.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (12x16 inches)
- ·Acrylic or oil paints (white, black, gray, yellow, red)
- ·Round brushes (various sizes)
- ·Flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)
- ·Rags
optional
- ·Medium (for oil paints)
- ·Varnish
Use a smooth canvas for easier blending. Acrylic paints are easier to clean up, but oil paints offer richer colors and blending capabilities.
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