plate no. 0106
Portrait of Amedeo Modigliani
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes and practice subtle value gradations to create depth and form.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the overall composition, focusing on the geometric shapes of the face and background.
- step 02
Divide the face into planes based on the light and shadow patterns.
- step 03
Block in the background with light gray tones, creating the diamond pattern.
- step 04
Mix a range of gray values for the face and neck.
- step 05
Begin applying the gray tones to the face, working from dark to light.
- step 06
Add the dark tones for the hair and the green for the jacket.
- step 07
Refine the details of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form.
color palette
primary · gray · white · black · green
secondary · brown · ochre
Mix various shades of gray by combining black and white. Use small amounts of brown or ochre to warm up the grays for the skin tones. Mix the green by combining blue and yellow.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·value shading
- ·planar analysis
- ·color mixing
- ·blending
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the geometric shapes.
- →Using too much contrast, making the face look harsh.
- →Not accurately capturing the proportions of the face.
- →Creating muddy or dull colors.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·White gesso
- ·Round brushes (various sizes)
- ·Flat brushes (various sizes)
- ·Palette
- ·Palette knife
- ·Odorless mineral spirits or water (depending on paint type)
optional
- ·Painting medium
- ·Easel
- ·Ruler
A smooth canvas surface is recommended for easier blending. Use a medium to help with blending and drying time.
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