plate no. 5806

Mystischer Kopf: Frauenkopf auf blauem Grund

Alexej von Jawlensky, 1917

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfacefigurepersonheadexpressionism

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color blocking and how to use a limited palette to create a cohesive and expressive portrait. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.

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 of the head, neck, and facial features.
step 02
Block in the background with a solid layer of blue.
step 03
Identify the major color areas on the face (e.g., forehead, cheeks, nose, chin).
step 04
Mix the primary colors for each area and apply them in distinct blocks.
step 05
Add secondary colors and highlights to define the features further.
step 06
Refine the edges of the color blocks to create a sense of form.
step 07
Add details like the eyes, eyebrows, and mouth using darker colors.
step 08
Adjust the overall color balance and add final touches to enhance the expression.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Yellow Ochre · Cadmium Red · Titanium White

secondary · Purple · Green · Pink · Orange

Mix blue and white for the background. Use yellow ochre and white for highlights. Mix red and blue for purples. Mix blue and yellow for greens. Mix red and white for pinks. Mix red and yellow for oranges.

techniques