plate no. 0337
Self-portrait
Koloman Moser, 1910
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students practice portrait techniques, color mixing for skin tones, and creating depth with subtle value changes. It also offers an opportunity to explore expressive brushwork and simplified forms.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the head, shoulders, and background.
- step 02
Establish the overall color scheme with a thin wash of color.
- step 03
Begin layering in the skin tones, focusing on the subtle variations in color and value.
- step 04
Define the features of the face, paying attention to the proportions and angles.
- step 05
Paint the clothing and background, using loose brushstrokes to create texture and depth.
- step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create form and dimension.
- step 07
Refine the details and adjust the colors as needed.
- step 08
Add final touches and let dry.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · burnt umber
secondary · purple · white · green
Mix yellow ochre with small amounts of ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create a range of skin tones. Use white to lighten the colors and create highlights. Mix ultramarine blue with burnt umber to create darks.
techniques
- ·color mixing
- ·layering
- ·blending
- ·expressive brushwork
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →over-blending
- →inaccurate proportions
- →muddy colors
- →ignoring value changes
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium gloss
- ·easel
- ·rags
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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