plate no. 3441

Portrait of Marie Coca and her Daughter

Suzanne Valadon, 1913

oil, canvasPost-Impressionismportraitfiguresportraitchairinteriordollclothing

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in rendering figures with accurate proportions and capturing the textures of different fabrics. Students can also learn about creating depth through layering and subtle color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figures, chair, and other elements.
step 02
Block in the main colors of the background, figures, and chair, focusing on large areas of color.
step 03
Refine the shapes and details of the figures, paying attention to facial features and clothing folds.
step 04
Add details to the chair, including the floral pattern and the texture of the fabric.
step 05
Develop the background elements, such as the picture frame and the table with flowers.
step 06
Work on the doll, capturing its form and details.
step 07
Refine the lighting and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ivory black · titanium white · yellow ochre · burnt umber

secondary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red light · sap green

Mix various shades of brown and green by combining yellow ochre, burnt umber, ultramarine blue, and titanium white. Achieve skin tones by mixing titanium white, yellow ochre, and a touch of cadmium red light.

techniques

·blocking in
·layering
·blending
·dry brushing
·scumbling

common pitfalls

→Incorrect proportions of the figures.
→Overly smooth blending, losing the texture of the brushstrokes.
→Ignoring the subtle color variations in the shadows and highlights.
→Getting lost in the details too early, before establishing the overall composition.