plate no. 4038
Portrait De L'artiste
Jules Bastien-Lepage, 1880
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Create a light sketch of the portrait, focusing on proportions and placement of features.
- step 02
Establish the background with a thin wash of dark brown and umber.
- step 03
Block in the main areas of the face with light and shadow using a limited palette.
- step 04
Refine the facial features, paying attention to subtle tonal changes and highlights.
- step 05
Paint the clothing with broad strokes, focusing on the overall shape and form.
- step 06
Add details to the hair and beard, using small brushstrokes to create texture.
- step 07
Blend the edges of the forms to create a soft, diffused effect.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to the eyes and other focal points.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw umber · titanium white · yellow ochre
secondary · ivory black · cadmium red light
Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. Darken tones with burnt umber and black. Use raw umber for shadows and background.
techniques
- ·portrait drawing
- ·value studies
- ·limited palette
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Using too much paint and losing the subtle tonal variations.
- →Struggling with accurate proportions and likeness.
- →Creating harsh lines and edges instead of soft transitions.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·oil paints (burnt umber, raw umber, titanium white, yellow ochre, ivory black)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
- ·assorted brushes (round and flat)
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·painting easel
- ·rags
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a toned canvas to create a warmer base.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
in this vein
