plate no. 4027

Pink Figure (Wizard)

oil, canvasCubismportraitfigureportraitcubismabstractheadtorso

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify forms into geometric shapes and use a limited color palette to create a cohesive image. It also encourages exploration of abstract portraiture.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figure and background, focusing on proportions and composition.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, starting with the background.
step 03
Define the darker areas of the figure, using a mix of browns and greens.
step 04
Add highlights to the figure with lighter shades of green and pink.
step 05
Refine the details of the face and hair, paying attention to the geometric shapes.
step 06
Add the brown rectangle on the side of the head.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors as needed to create a sense of depth and form.
step 08
Add final details and highlights.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · viridian green · titanium white

secondary · raw umber · cadmium red light

Mix burnt sienna and white for the skin tones, viridian green and white for the highlights, and raw umber and burnt sienna for the darker areas. Use small amounts of cadmium red to tint the skin.

techniques