plate no. 3688
Self-portrait
Eugène Grasset, 1886
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in value shading, capturing likeness, and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. It's a good exercise in understanding light and shadow on a complex form.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the head, hat, and shoulders.
- step 02
Establish the darkest areas of the portrait, focusing on the hair, beard, and shadows under the hat.
- step 03
Block in the mid-tones, paying attention to the overall value structure of the face and clothing.
- step 04
Begin adding details to the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth, using a range of values to create depth.
- step 05
Develop the texture of the hat and clothing with short, directional brushstrokes.
- step 06
Refine the highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the form.
- step 07
Add the final details, such as the monocle and any subtle variations in tone.
- step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting, making any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · ivory black · titanium white
secondary · raw umber
Mix various shades of gray by combining ivory black and titanium white in different ratios. Use raw umber to add warmth to certain areas.
techniques
- ·value shading
- ·hatching
- ·cross-hatching
- ·dry brush texture
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Creating muddy or undefined shadows.
- →Losing the overall likeness of the subject.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·#4 round brush
- ·#6 filbert brush
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
Use a medium-grit canvas for better texture. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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