plate no. 0662

Sheila Edmonds

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurebookchairwomanclothing

some experience helpful

This painting provides a good opportunity to practice portraiture and capturing likeness, as well as rendering fabric and skin tones with visible brushstrokes. Students can also learn about creating a sense of depth and form through subtle value changes and color temperature.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, chair, and book.
step 02
Establish the background color with a thin wash of burnt sienna and red.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color for the skin, hair, clothing, and chair using simplified color mixtures.
step 04
Begin refining the facial features, paying close attention to the placement of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 05
Develop the form of the figure and clothing by adding highlights and shadows, using visible brushstrokes to create texture.
step 06
Add details to the book and chair, such as the pages and floral pattern.
step 07
Refine the edges and details throughout the painting, adjusting colors and values as needed.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to create a sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · titanium white · burnt sienna · cadmium red · yellow ochre

secondary · ultramarine blue · viridian green · ivory black

Mix skin tones using white, yellow ochre, burnt sienna, and a touch of red. Use ultramarine blue and white to create the cool tones in the hair. Achieve the background color by mixing burnt sienna and cadmium red.

techniques