plate no. 6392

Sorrows, heads

Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, 1914

oilCubismportraitportraitfiguremanheadclothingabstract

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify forms into geometric shapes and use color to define planes. It also encourages experimentation with expressive brushstrokes to convey emotion.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the head, neck, and shoulders, focusing on proportions.
step 02
Divide the face into geometric planes, simplifying the features.
step 03
Block in the main color areas for the skin, hair, and clothing using broad brushstrokes.
step 04
Mix the various shades of yellow and orange for the skin tones, paying attention to subtle variations.
step 05
Add darker tones to define shadows and create depth in the face.
step 06
Introduce the background colors, blending them loosely with the edges of the figure.
step 07
Refine the details of the eyes, nose, and mouth, maintaining the geometric style.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall effect.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red

Mix yellow ochre with burnt sienna and a touch of red for the skin tones. Use ultramarine blue and raw umber to create the darker shades in the background and clothing. Add white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques