plate no. 2154

Portrait of Quappi in pink and purple

Max Beckmann, 1931

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfiguredressgloveschairbackground

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying forms, mixing skin tones, and using bold brushstrokes to create texture and definition. It also provides practice in capturing a likeness and conveying a mood through color and expression.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: skin, dress, background, and gloves.
step 03
Refine the skin tones, paying attention to subtle variations in color.
step 04
Add details to the dress, such as the white trim and folds.
step 05
Develop the background with broad brushstrokes, creating a sense of depth.
step 06
Paint the gloves, capturing their texture and form.
step 07
Refine the facial features, focusing on the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · black · pink · brown · white

secondary · purple · yellow · red

Mix skin tones by blending white, pink, and brown. Achieve the background pink by mixing white with a touch of red and purple. Create the glove color by mixing brown with a touch of red.

techniques