plate no. 2509

Prostitutes

Otto Dix, 1923

oilExpressionismportraitfiguresportraitshatsflowersclothingfaces

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, color mixing, and expressive brushwork. Focus on capturing the unique character of each figure through careful observation and bold application of paint.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figures and their hats.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin wash of yellow.
step 03
Establish the main color areas for the faces, hats, and clothing using diluted paint.
step 04
Build up the colors in layers, gradually adding more detail and intensity.
step 05
Use short, expressive brushstrokes to define the forms and textures.
step 06
Pay close attention to the facial features and expressions, capturing the unique character of each figure.
step 07
Add the details of the flowers and other embellishments.
step 08
Refine the edges and add final touches to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · cadmium red · viridian green

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber · titanium white

Mix red and white for the pinkish skin tones, and use yellow ochre with touches of green and red for the background. Create depth by layering colors and adding subtle variations.

techniques