plate no. 7544

Portrait of a man

Andre Derain, 1915

oil, canvasFauvismportraitportraitmanpipechairtiefigure

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in simplifying forms and using color to define shapes rather than relying on precise detail. Students will learn to mix subtle variations of color to create depth and form.

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, chair, and background.
step 02
Block in the main color areas: the blue of the chair, the white of the jacket, the red of the tie, and the skin tones.
step 03
Begin adding darker values to define the shadows and contours of the face and clothing.
step 04
Mix lighter values to create highlights and bring out the form of the figure.
step 05
Refine the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth, using small brushstrokes.
step 06
Add the details of the pipe and the pattern of the tie.
step 07
Adjust the colors and values throughout the painting to create a sense of harmony and balance.
step 08
Add final details and highlights.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red light

secondary · yellow ochre · burnt umber

Mix white with small amounts of blue, red, and yellow to create the subtle variations in skin tone and the white jacket. Use burnt umber to darken the blues and reds.

techniques

·color blocking
·scumbling
·broken color
·simplified forms
·limited palette

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details and losing the freshness of the brushstrokes.
→Creating muddy colors by overmixing.
→Failing to capture the likeness of the subject.
→Not simplifying the forms enough.

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas 16x20
·oil paints (ultramarine blue, titanium white, cadmium red light, yellow ochre, burnt umber)
·palette
·palette knife
·assorted brushes (round and flat)
·linseed oil
·turpentine
·rags