plate no. 0335

Self-Portrait with Wine Glass (Gluttony)

Kent Bellows, 2000

oilContemporary Realismself-portraitfigurestill lifefoodtablestormwine

experienced study

Recreating this painting would develop skills in rendering realistic textures and complex compositions. Students can learn to balance light and shadow to create depth and mood.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a detailed sketch, paying close attention to proportions and perspective.
step 02
Establish the overall value structure with a thin underpainting using burnt umber or a similar earth tone.
step 03
Block in the major color areas, focusing on local color and temperature.
step 04
Develop the background, starting with the stormy sky and then the interior wall.
step 05
Work on the figure, carefully rendering the facial features and clothing.
step 06
Paint the still life elements, paying attention to the textures and details of the food and objects.
step 07
Refine the highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.
step 08
Add final details and glazes to unify the painting and enhance the colors.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · ivory black · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · viridian

Achieve realistic skin tones by mixing cadmium red, yellow ochre, and titanium white, adjusting the proportions for highlights and shadows. Create depth in the stormy sky by layering ultramarine blue, ivory black, and white.

techniques