plate no. 6741
Nöel Coward
Abdul Mati Klarwein, 1958
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portrait sketching, value studies, and loose brushwork techniques. It's a good exercise in capturing likeness and creating a moody atmosphere.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the head, shoulders, and clothing.
- step 02
Establish the main light and shadow areas with broad washes of diluted paint.
- step 03
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the angles and proportions of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- step 04
Add details to the clothing, such as the collar and tie, using darker values.
- step 05
Develop the background with loose, expressive brushstrokes, varying the values to create depth.
- step 06
Add highlights to the face and clothing to create contrast and dimension.
- step 07
Refine the edges and details, softening some areas and sharpening others.
- step 08
Add final touches and adjustments to complete the painting.
color palette
primary · gray · white · black
secondary · dark gray · light gray
Varying the ratios of white and black will achieve all the necessary shades of gray. Use a touch of blue or brown to subtly warm or cool the grays.
techniques
- ·value studies
- ·loose brushwork
- ·dry brushing
- ·blending
- ·portrait sketching
common pitfalls
- →Getting the proportions of the face wrong.
- →Overworking the details and losing the loose, expressive quality.
- →Creating too much contrast and making the painting look harsh.
- →Not paying attention to the subtle variations in value.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas
- ·Gray acrylic paint
- ·White acrylic paint
- ·Black acrylic paint
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#8 flat brush
- ·Palette
- ·Water
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·retarder medium
- ·easel
Use a canvas with a smooth surface for easier blending. Acrylics are recommended for their fast drying time, but oils can also be used.
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