plate no. 9159

Portrait de Martin Luis Guzman

Diego Rivera, 1915

oil, canvasCubismportraitportraitfigurecubismgeometric shapesabstractman

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into geometric shapes and use color to define planes in a cubist style. It also provides practice in creating texture with visible brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the portrait, focusing on the geometric forms.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with diluted paint, establishing the overall value structure.
step 03
Begin refining the shapes and adding details to the face and clothing.
step 04
Develop the background with layers of color and texture.
step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes to create a sense of clarity and definition.
step 07
Pay attention to the color relationships between the different planes.
step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · sap green · ivory black

Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white. Create muted tones by mixing complementary colors. Achieve the skin tones by blending white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red.

techniques