plate no. 0429

Portrait de Ms Jean McKelvie Sclater-Booth

Kees van Dongen, 1920

oilPost-Impressionismportraitfigureportraitdressdoginteriorbed

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in capturing a likeness using simplified forms and color variations. Students can learn to suggest details with expressive brushstrokes rather than precise rendering.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, focusing on value relationships.
step 03
Develop the form of the face, paying attention to the planes and shadows.
step 04
Add details to the dress, using loose brushstrokes to suggest texture.
step 05
Paint the dog, capturing its unique features and expression.
step 06
Refine the background, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the overall effect.
step 08
Adjust colors and values as needed to achieve a harmonious composition.

color palette

primary · gray · white · black · flesh tones

secondary · red · brown · blue

Mix various shades of gray by combining white, black, and small amounts of blue or brown. Achieve flesh tones by mixing white, red, yellow, and a touch of green or blue.

techniques