plate no. 1257

Orel

Periklis Vyzantios, 1914

oilImpressionismportraitportraitfigureprofilehairfaceclothing

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, specifically capturing likeness and form using subtle value changes. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere with a limited color palette.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic outline of the head and shoulders, paying attention to proportions and angles.
step 02
Establish the background by blocking in the dark tones with a large brush.
step 03
Begin blocking in the main areas of light and shadow on the face and neck using a mid-tone mixture.
step 04
Refine the shapes and values of the facial features, focusing on the subtle transitions between light and shadow.
step 05
Add details to the hair, using short, broken brushstrokes to suggest texture and form.
step 06
Adjust the values and edges throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add final highlights to the face and hair to create focal points.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · titanium white · yellow ochre

secondary · cadmium red light · ivory black

Mix various shades of brown and flesh tones by combining burnt umber, yellow ochre, and titanium white. Add a touch of cadmium red for warmth in the cheeks and lips. Use ivory black to darken the shadows.

techniques