plate no. 6004

Polish Girl

Chaim Soutine, 1929

oil, canvasExpressionismportraitportraitfigurewomanclothinghairface

some experience helpful

This painting offers a chance to practice expressive brushwork and color mixing to create a mood. Students can learn to simplify forms and focus on capturing the essence of the subject rather than precise realism.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure on the canvas with a light pencil.
step 02
Block in the background with varying shades of blue, using loose brushstrokes.
step 03
Establish the main areas of light and shadow on the face and body with thin washes of color.
step 04
Mix and apply the skin tones, focusing on the subtle variations in color and value.
step 05
Paint the dark clothing, using a mix of blues and blacks, and pay attention to the folds and shadows.
step 06
Add details to the hair, using short, expressive brushstrokes to create texture and volume.
step 07
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to bring the painting to life.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · burnt sienna · alizarin crimson

secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black

Mix blues and white for the background. Use crimson and sienna for skin tones, adding white for highlights and blue for shadows. Mix blues and black for the clothing.

techniques