plate no. 2312

My Secret Friends

Julio Galan, 1992

oilSurrealismportraitfigureportraitribbonsuittableabstract

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and creating realistic skin tones, as well as understanding surrealist composition and symbolism. Students will also learn how to create depth and texture using layering and glazing techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, including the figure, table, and background elements, paying attention to proportions.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, starting with the background and then moving to the figure's skin and clothing.
step 03
Begin layering and blending colors to create depth and form in the figure's face and clothing.
step 04
Add details to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, focusing on capturing the likeness of the subject.
step 05
Paint the ribbon and other surreal elements, paying attention to their texture and form.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create contrast and dimension throughout the painting.
step 07
Refine the details and make any necessary adjustments to the composition.
step 08
Add final touches, such as the writing and any other small details.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · ivory black

secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · yellow ochre

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, ivory black, and titanium white. Use small amounts of ultramarine blue and cadmium red to create subtle variations in skin tone and clothing.

techniques