plate no. 2058

Self-Portrait with Red Fez

Corneliu Baba, 1971

oilExpressionismself-portraitportraitfigureheadhatclothingself-portrait

some experience helpful

This painting is a great exercise in capturing form with limited color and bold brushstrokes. Students can learn to simplify complex shapes and focus on value relationships to create depth and volume.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Prepare a toned canvas with a neutral gray or brown.
step 02
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, hat, and shoulders.
step 03
Block in the darkest areas of the background and clothing using a dark brown or black.
step 04
Establish the main light source and block in the highlights on the face and hat with lighter tones.
step 05
Begin blending and refining the shapes of the face, paying attention to the planes and angles.
step 06
Add details to the hat, such as the texture and folds.
step 07
Refine the edges and add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · raw umber · burnt sienna · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · ivory black

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining raw umber, burnt sienna, and white. Use small amounts of red to warm up the skin tones. Black is used sparingly to deepen the shadows.

techniques