plate no. 5926

Self-Portrait

Georges Rouault, 1944

oilExpressionismself-portraitportraitfigurefaceshadowsheadman

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to use value to create form and how to simplify a subject into basic shapes. It also demonstrates how to use visible brushstrokes to add texture and interest.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, neck, and shoulders, paying attention to proportions.
step 02
Block in the background with a dark green, using visible brushstrokes.
step 03
Establish the main areas of light and shadow on the face with a mid-tone flesh color.
step 04
Add darker values to define the shadows under the eyes, nose, and chin.
step 05
Introduce lighter values to highlight the forehead, cheekbones, and bridge of the nose.
step 06
Paint the red shirt, using darker reds for shadows and lighter reds for highlights.
step 07
Add the white collar with short, deliberate strokes.
step 08
Refine the details and adjust the values as needed to create a sense of depth and form.

color palette

primary · flesh tone · dark green · red

secondary · white · brown

The flesh tone can be achieved by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a touch of red. The dark green can be created by mixing green with burnt umber or black. Vary the red by adding brown or white.

techniques

·blocking in
·value study
·visible brushstrokes
·color mixing
·simplification

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details
→Failing to establish a strong value structure
→Using colors that are too saturated
→Ignoring the direction of the brushstrokes

materials

surface · stretched canvas

required

·stretched canvas
·acrylic or oil paints
·#4 round brush
·#8 flat brush
·palette
·palette knife
·linseed oil (if using oils)

optional

·painting medium
·varnish

Use a canvas with a medium texture to enhance the visibility of the brushstrokes. Acrylics will dry faster, while oils will allow for more blending time.

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