plate no. 3022

Self-Portrait II

oilRealismself-portraitportraitmanbeardhairclothingface

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly in capturing likeness and using a limited palette to create depth and form. It also provides practice in layering and blending techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the head, shoulders, and facial features.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin wash of burnt umber or similar earth tone.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color, focusing on the mid-tones.
step 04
Begin building up the darker values in the background and clothing.
step 05
Refine the facial features, paying close attention to the highlights and shadows.
step 06
Add details to the hair and beard, using short, broken brushstrokes.
step 07
Glaze thin layers of color to adjust the overall tone and create depth.
step 08
Add final highlights and details to bring the portrait to life.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · yellow ochre · cadmium red light

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining burnt umber, raw sienna, ivory black, and titanium white. Use small amounts of yellow ochre and cadmium red light to add warmth to the skin tones.

techniques