plate no. 5105

Sarah Ogden Gustin

oilNaïve Art (Primitivism)portraitportraitwomandresswindowbookfoliage

some experience helpful

This painting offers a good opportunity to practice portraiture basics and rendering simple forms with limited color variations. Students can learn about creating a sense of depth through subtle value changes and atmospheric perspective.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, paying attention to proportions and placement of the figure, window, and book.
step 02
Establish the background with a thin wash of dark color, gradually building up darker tones.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, focusing on the dress and skin tones.
step 04
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the subtle highlights and shadows.
step 05
Add details to the dress, including the lace trim and folds.
step 06
Paint the window and the landscape view outside, using lighter values and softer edges to create distance.
step 07
Add the book and foliage, paying attention to their texture and form.
step 08
Make final adjustments to values and details to create a cohesive and balanced painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · titanium white · ivory black

secondary · yellow ochre · sap green

Mix skin tones by blending white with small amounts of burnt umber and yellow ochre. Create the dress color by mixing burnt umber with a touch of black. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques