plate no. 0103

Self Portrait

Hans Hofmann, 1902

oil, boardPointillismself-portraitportraitmanhatfigureclothingself-portrait

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students understand color mixing for skin tones and how to create form using small, distinct brushstrokes. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and light through pointillism.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, hat, and background elements.
step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by applying a thin wash of color to the entire canvas.
step 03
Begin applying small, individual dots of color, focusing on the darkest areas first.
step 04
Gradually build up the layers of color, using a variety of hues to create depth and dimension.
step 05
Pay close attention to the transitions between light and shadow, using subtle color variations to create a sense of form.
step 06
Refine the details of the face and clothing, adding highlights and shadows as needed.
step 07
Continue to adjust the colors and values until the painting is balanced and harmonious.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre

secondary · burnt sienna · alizarin crimson · viridian

Mix skin tones by blending red, yellow, blue, and white. Use small amounts of blue and red to create shadows. Mix greens by combining blue and yellow, and adjust with red for muted tones.

techniques