plate no. 2729

Seated Harlequin

Juan Gris, 1923

oil, canvasCubismportraitfigureharlequinstill lifeportraitgeometric shapes

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color relationships, geometric abstraction, and simplified form representation. It also provides practice in layering and blending colors to achieve subtle tonal variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic geometric shapes and composition, paying attention to proportions.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with diluted washes, establishing the overall color scheme.
step 03
Begin layering and blending colors within each shape, gradually building up the tonal values.
step 04
Refine the edges of the shapes, using both hard and soft edges to create depth and interest.
step 05
Add details to the figure's face and clothing, keeping the geometric abstraction in mind.
step 06
Introduce subtle color variations and highlights to enhance the form and create visual interest.
step 07
Check the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making adjustments as needed.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · purple · gray · yellow · white

secondary · olive green · pink

Mix various shades of purple by combining red, blue, and white. Achieve gray tones by mixing black and white, and adjust the warmth or coolness by adding small amounts of yellow or blue.

techniques