plate no. 8427

Philomene

Sonia Delaunay, 1907

oilFauvismportraitportraitfigurefloralbackgroundclothingheadwear

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color mixing, layering, and simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages experimentation with non-naturalistic color choices to create mood and emphasis.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure and background flowers, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color for the background (yellow), figure (red), and headwear (black).
step 03
Begin adding details to the face, using distinct color blocks for highlights and shadows.
step 04
Develop the floral pattern in the background, varying the size and placement of the flowers.
step 05
Refine the shapes and colors of the figure's clothing, adding subtle variations in tone.
step 06
Add details to the hands and arms, paying attention to the overlapping forms.
step 07
Outline key areas with dark lines to define shapes and create contrast.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments to color, value, and composition.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · cadmium yellow · ultramarine blue

secondary · viridian green · burnt umber · titanium white

Mix greens by combining yellow and blue. Create variations in red by adding small amounts of umber or white. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques

·color blocking
·simplified forms
·visible brushstrokes
·layering
·color mixing

common pitfalls

→over-blending colors
→getting bogged down in detail too early
→not simplifying the shapes enough
→being afraid to use bold colors

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic or oil paints
·round brushes
·flat brushes
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil (if using oil paints)

optional

·painting medium
·varnish
·easel

Use a medium-sized canvas (e.g., 16x20 inches) to allow for sufficient detail. Acrylics are a good option for beginners due to their fast drying time.

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