plate no. 6211

Self-portrait with skulls

Luigi Russolo, 1909

oilExpressionismself-portraitself-portraitfigureskullsfacehairdark clothing

experienced study

Recreating this painting will develop skills in portraiture, particularly in capturing likeness and expression using a limited palette and visible brushstrokes. Students will also learn to create depth and atmosphere through layering and glazing techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Prepare a toned canvas with a warm brown underpainting.
step 02
Sketch the basic shapes of the face, hair, and clothing, paying attention to proportions.
step 03
Block in the main areas of light and shadow using a limited palette of earth tones.
step 04
Begin to refine the facial features, focusing on capturing the expression in the eyes and mouth.
step 05
Add the skulls in the background, using thin layers of paint to create a ghostly effect.
step 06
Develop the details in the hair and clothing, using visible brushstrokes to add texture.
step 07
Glaze over the entire painting with a thin layer of burnt umber to unify the colors and create depth.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the contrast and create a sense of realism.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · ivory black

secondary · cadmium red light · yellow ochre

Achieve skin tones by mixing burnt umber, raw sienna, and a touch of cadmium red light. Use ivory black to create shadows and depth. Mix yellow ochre with white for highlights.

techniques