plate no. 2017

Nurse I (Kaija Lahtinen)

Helene Schjerfbeck, 1943

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurenurseneutral backgroundclothing

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in capturing a likeness with simplified forms and limited color palette. Students can learn to create depth using subtle variations in tone and visible brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the head, neck, and shoulders, paying attention to proportions.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin layer of raw umber or similar earth tone.
step 03
Establish the skin tone with a mix of white, ochre, and a touch of red.
step 04
Define the facial features with thin lines and subtle shading, focusing on the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 05
Add the blush to the cheeks with a soft, blended application of red.
step 06
Paint the white shirt, using variations in white and gray to create form and shadow.
step 07
Add the black cross pendant, ensuring it is centered and balanced.
step 08
Refine the details and adjust the overall values to match the reference.

color palette

primary · titanium white · raw umber · yellow ochre

secondary · cadmium red light · ivory black

Skin tones are achieved by mixing white, ochre, and a touch of red. Vary the proportions to create subtle shifts in value and temperature. The background is a muted earth tone, achieved by mixing raw umber with white.

techniques