plate no. 9330

Portrait of Dan

Tahir Salahov, 1983

oilExpressionismportraitfigureportraitrobefoliageplantgarden

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in portraiture, including capturing likeness and skin tones, as well as rendering drapery and background foliage with expressive brushstrokes. Students can also explore color mixing to achieve the vibrant reds and deep greens.

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 and background.
step 02
Establish the main areas of light and shadow with a thin wash of color.
step 03
Block in the local colors of the robe, skin, foliage, and ground.
step 04
Develop the form of the figure with layers of paint, paying attention to highlights and shadows.
step 05
Add details to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Refine the foliage in the background, using varied brushstrokes to create texture.
step 07
Adjust the values and colors throughout the painting to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · viridian green · raw umber

secondary · yellow ochre · titanium white · ultramarine blue

Mix various shades of red by adding white, yellow, or a touch of blue. Create deep greens by mixing viridian with raw umber and a touch of blue. Achieve skin tones by blending white, yellow ochre, and a small amount of red and umber.

techniques