plate no. 5871
Self-portrait
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students understand how to use washes to build up values and create form, as well as how to simplify complex shapes into basic forms for a portrait.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, shoulders, and background.
- step 02
Apply a light wash of yellow ochre to the face and head, establishing the base skin tone.
- step 03
Add shadows with a mix of burnt umber and ultramarine blue, focusing on the planes of the face.
- step 04
Paint the background with loose washes of red, brown, and blue-gray, allowing colors to blend.
- step 05
Define the clothing with washes of gray and blue-gray, paying attention to the collar and tie.
- step 06
Refine the facial features, adding details to the eyes, nose, and mouth with darker values.
- step 07
Add highlights to the forehead, nose, and cheekbones with lighter washes.
- step 08
Let the painting dry completely, then add final details and adjustments as needed.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue
secondary · cadmium red · ivory black
Mix yellow ochre with burnt umber for warm skin tones. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber for cool shadows. Add cadmium red for warmer areas in the background.
techniques
- ·wet-on-wet blending
- ·layering washes
- ·dry brush texture
- ·value studies
- ·color mixing
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Using too much water, which can cause the colors to become diluted.
- →Not allowing the washes to dry completely before adding subsequent layers.
- →Failing to establish a clear value structure.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·Watercolor paper 140lb
- ·Watercolor paints
- ·Round brushes (sizes 4, 8, 12)
- ·Palette
- ·Water container
- ·Paper towels
- ·Pencil
- ·Eraser
optional
- ·Masking fluid
- ·Palette knife
- ·Spray bottle
Use high-quality watercolor paints for best results. Experiment with different paper textures to achieve varied effects.
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