plate no. 1275

Richard Pasco (b.1926)

John Bratby, 1977

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurefacemanclothingexpressionism

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in impasto techniques and color mixing to create form and texture. It also provides practice in capturing likeness and expression using bold, visible brushstrokes.

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 face and figure.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color with thin washes, establishing the overall value structure.
step 03
Begin applying thicker paint using short, directional brushstrokes to define the planes of the face.
step 04
Focus on capturing the highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 05
Mix and apply colors directly on the canvas, blending slightly to create smooth transitions.
step 06
Add details to the eyes, nose, and mouth to capture the likeness of the subject.
step 07
Refine the background with loose, expressive brushstrokes.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · yellow ochre · titanium white · ultramarine blue

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green · ivory black

Achieve skin tones by mixing yellow ochre, burnt umber, and titanium white. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create dark shadows and black tones. Mix viridian green with yellow ochre and white for background foliage.

techniques