plate no. 6123

Self-portrait with Marcella

Otto Dix, 1969

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfiguretreechildmanfoliage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and color mixing to create mood and form. It also encourages simplification of complex forms into basic shapes and bold strokes.

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 composition lightly on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the background with broad strokes of yellow and white.
step 03
Establish the dark areas of the figures and tree with dark greens, blues, and browns.
step 04
Begin to define the facial features and clothing with thicker paint and visible brushstrokes.
step 05
Mix lighter tones to highlight the faces and hands, paying attention to the light source.
step 06
Add details to the tree branches and leaves using a smaller brush.
step 07
Refine the overall composition and add final touches to the figures' expressions.
step 08
Allow to dry and add a varnish if desired.

color palette

primary · yellow · dark green · brown · white

secondary · blue · purple · pink · black

Mix dark greens by combining blue and yellow with a touch of brown or black. Achieve skin tones by mixing white, yellow, and a touch of red or pink. Use purple and blue to create shadows.

techniques