
plate no. 1912
Alexander Orlowski, 1823
This painting provides practice in capturing likeness and using hatching and cross-hatching to create form and value. Students will also learn to simplify complex textures like hair and fur using expressive mark-making.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition and proportions.
Establish the main shapes of the head, hair, and clothing.
Block in the darkest values using charcoal or dark pastel.
Add mid-tones, gradually building up the form.
Use hatching and cross-hatching to define the planes of the face and create texture.
Pay close attention to the highlights and shadows to create depth.
Refine the details of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Add final touches to the hair and clothing, capturing the texture and movement.
color palette
primary · charcoal gray · ivory black · raw umber
secondary · white · light ochre
Mix shades of gray by varying the pressure and layering of charcoal or pastel. Use white to create highlights and light ochre to warm up the skin tones.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · toned paper
required
optional
Toned paper helps to establish mid-tones and makes it easier to create highlights and shadows.
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