plate no. 6586

Portrait of the Regisseur Alexander Tairov

Aristarkh Lentulov, 1920

oil, canvasCubismportraitportraitfigurebuildingscubismman

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to break down complex forms into simpler geometric shapes and use color to define planes and create depth. It's also a good exercise in capturing a likeness through abstract representation.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and the surrounding architectural elements, focusing on geometric simplification.
step 02
Block in the main color areas using thin washes of paint, establishing the overall value structure.
step 03
Begin to define the planes of the face and body with distinct color variations, paying attention to light and shadow.
step 04
Add details to the buildings and background, maintaining the cubist style with sharp angles and contrasting colors.
step 05
Refine the edges of the shapes and add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 06
Introduce subtle color variations within each plane to add visual interest.
step 07
Review the overall composition and make any necessary adjustments to balance the colors and shapes.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · cadmium red · titanium white

secondary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · viridian

Mix blues and reds with white to create the various shades of the suit. Use burnt umber and yellow ochre to create the skin tones, and mix with red for the lips and cheeks. Use viridian and white to create the green tones in the background.

techniques