plate no. 6168

Portrait

Kazimir Malevich, 1932

oil, canvasNeoclassicismportraitportraitfigureclothinghatface

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplified form representation and color blocking. It also provides an opportunity to explore visible brushstrokes and texture.

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, focusing on the head, shoulders, and hat.
step 02
Block in the main color areas: skin tone, hat, clothing, and background.
step 03
Refine the skin tones, adding subtle variations and highlights.
step 04
Define the features of the face: eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 05
Add details to the clothing, such as the collar and any decorative elements.
step 06
Develop the background, ensuring it complements the figure.
step 07
Apply visible brushstrokes to create texture and visual interest.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form.

color palette

primary · titanium white · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

secondary · viridian green · ivory black

Mix skin tones by combining white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red and blue. Create the green by mixing blue and yellow. Use black sparingly to darken colors.

techniques