plate no. 8023

Nikolaos Politis, Student in Munich

oilRealismportraitportraitmandarkfigurebeardclothing

some experience helpful

This painting is a great exercise in understanding value relationships and creating form with subtle tonal shifts. Students will learn to mix dark colors and create a sense of depth using chiaroscuro.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Prepare a toned canvas with a mid-tone gray or brown.
step 02
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figure, paying attention to proportions.
step 03
Block in the darkest areas with a thin wash of dark brown or black.
step 04
Begin to build up the mid-tones, focusing on the planes of the face and clothing.
step 05
Carefully add highlights to the face, hand, and collar, using small amounts of lighter colors.
step 06
Refine the details of the face, paying attention to the eyes and mouth.
step 07
Soften edges and blend tones to create a sense of atmosphere.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · ivory black · raw umber · burnt umber

secondary · titanium white · yellow ochre · alizarin crimson

Mix darks by combining black and umber. Use small amounts of white and yellow ochre to create highlights. Add a touch of alizarin crimson to warm up the skin tones.

techniques