plate no. 3526

Self-portrait with Black Bandage

Rik Wouters, 1915

oilFauvismself-portraitfigureportraitself-portraitclothingbandagebackground

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying forms, mixing color variations within a limited palette, and capturing a likeness with expressive brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background using light pencil lines.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and then the figure's clothing.
step 03
Mix the various shades of red for the background, paying attention to the subtle variations in tone.
step 04
Mix the different shades of blue-green for the shirt, using white, blue, and a touch of green.
step 05
Add the darker areas of the composition, such as the hair, bandage, and shadows.
step 06
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the placement of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 07
Add the details of the hands and clothing, using thicker brushstrokes to create texture.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to create a cohesive and expressive portrait.

color palette

primary · red · blue · white

secondary · black · green · brown

Mix various shades of red by adding white or black. Achieve the blue-green of the shirt by mixing blue and green with varying amounts of white. Use brown to create skin tones.

techniques