plate no. 9676
Portrait of Yuri Korvin-Krukovsky
Boris Kustodiev, 1926
some experience helpful
Recreating this portrait will help students develop skills in capturing likeness through careful observation of light and shadow, and understanding how to build form with tonal values. Students will also practice rendering textures and details with charcoal or graphite.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the overall proportions of the head and shoulders.
- step 02
Establish the main shapes of the face: forehead, nose, cheeks, and jawline.
- step 03
Block in the darkest areas of shadow, paying attention to the direction of light.
- step 04
Gradually build up mid-tones, blending smoothly to create form.
- step 05
Refine the details of the eyes, nose, and mouth, focusing on accuracy.
- step 06
Add details to the hair, clothing, and background.
- step 07
Adjust values and contrast to create depth and dimension.
- step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the portrait.
color palette
primary · charcoal gray · white
secondary · light gray · dark gray
Vary the pressure and blending of charcoal or graphite to achieve different shades of gray.
techniques
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·blending
- ·tonal shading
- ·value studies
common pitfalls
- →Failing to establish accurate proportions early on.
- →Overworking details before establishing overall values.
- →Creating harsh lines instead of smooth transitions.
- →Ignoring the direction of light and shadow.
materials
surface · drawing paper (smooth or slightly textured)
required
- ·charcoal pencils (HB, 2B, 4B)
- ·kneaded eraser
- ·drawing paper (smooth or slightly textured)
- ·blending stumps or tortillons
- ·fixative spray
- ·ruler
optional
- ·white charcoal pencil
- ·sandpaper block
- ·drawing board
Use a variety of charcoal pencils to achieve a full range of values. Work in a well-lit area to accurately observe light and shadow.
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