plate no. 6083

O Arquitecto José Pacheco

Mario Eloy, 1925

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfiguremanclothingformal wearbook

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice portraiture, capturing likeness with simplified forms, and using a limited palette to create a cohesive mood. It also encourages experimentation with visible brushstrokes to add texture and energy.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic proportions of the figure and the main shapes (head, torso, legs).
step 02
Block in the background with a thin layer of muted blues and grays.
step 03
Establish the dark areas of the clothing with black, paying attention to the folds and shadows.
step 04
Add the white shirt and collar, using subtle variations in tone to suggest form.
step 05
Mix the skin tones and apply them to the face and hands, focusing on the light and shadow.
step 06
Paint the book with a light beige and add the rose with reds and greens.
step 07
Refine the details of the face and clothing, adding highlights and shadows.
step 08
Add final touches and adjust the overall composition as needed.

color palette

primary · black · white · gray · blue

secondary · red · beige · green

Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white. Create skin tones by mixing white, red, and a touch of yellow and brown. Mute colors by adding a touch of complementary color.

techniques