plate no. 1744
Portrait of a Woman in Pink
Robert Falk, 1914
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand color temperature and how to simplify complex forms into geometric shapes. It will also teach them how to use visible brushstrokes to create texture and interest.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, table, and background.
- step 02
Block in the main areas of color, focusing on the overall composition.
- step 03
Start to define the shapes of the face and clothing with more precise brushstrokes.
- step 04
Add the red accents of the collar and sleeves.
- step 05
Develop the background with layers of blues and greens.
- step 06
Refine the details of the table and the woman's features.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 08
Step back and make any necessary adjustments to the composition and color balance.
color palette
primary · red · blue · green · pink
secondary · black · white · yellow
Mix pinks by adding white to red. Achieve the green skin tones by mixing green with yellow and a touch of red. Use blue and black to create the dark shadows.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·geometric simplification
- ·visible brushstrokes
- ·color temperature
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Over-blending colors
- →Getting lost in details too early
- →Ignoring the overall composition
- →Not simplifying forms enough
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas 12x16
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#8 flat brush
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Linseed oil (if using oil paints)
optional
- ·Medium gloss
- ·Easel
- ·Rags
Use a limited palette to encourage color mixing. Consider using a toned canvas to create a more unified color scheme.
tips & new artworks in your inbox
no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
or to save artworks, chat, and track progress
