plate no. 9517
Portrait of Alexei Orlov
study guide
est. 15 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic oval shape and the figure's pose, paying attention to proportions.
- step 02
Block in the main areas of color: skin, clothing, hat, and background.
- step 03
Begin refining the skin tones, using layers of thin paint to build up highlights and shadows.
- step 04
Work on the clothing, focusing on the folds and drapery to create a sense of volume.
- step 05
Add details to the hat, medals, and ribbons, paying attention to their textures and patterns.
- step 06
Refine the background, creating a soft and atmospheric effect.
- step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall sense of depth and realism.
- step 08
Glaze with thin layers to unify the colors and create a polished finish.
color palette
primary · titanium white · ivory black · yellow ochre · cadmium red
secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · viridian
Mix skin tones using white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. Use black and umber to create shadows. Achieve the blue ribbon color by mixing ultramarine blue with white and a touch of green.
techniques
- ·portraiture
- ·glazing
- ·scumbling
- ·blending
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the skin tones, resulting in a muddy or unnatural appearance.
- →Failing to capture the likeness of the subject.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in color and value.
- →Creating harsh or abrupt transitions between colors.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·cadmium red oil paint
- ·ultramarine blue oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·viridian oil paint
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Consider using a medium to thin the paints and improve flow.
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