plate no. 0104

Study for portrait

Chronis Botsoglou, 1964

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigureheadbandclothingfacehair

some experience helpful

This painting helps students practice simplifying forms and capturing likeness with expressive brushstrokes. It also provides practice in mixing skin tones and creating a sense of depth with subtle value changes.

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 and proportions of the head, shoulders, and main features.
step 02
Block in the background with a thin layer of mixed pinkish-purple.
step 03
Establish the main skin tone using a mix of browns, yellows, and reds, applying it in broad strokes.
step 04
Define the darker areas of the face and hair with darker browns and blacks.
step 05
Add highlights to the face, headband, and clothing with lighter tones.
step 06
Paint the blue jacket using a mix of blues, blacks, and browns, following the direction of the folds.
step 07
Refine the features and adjust values to create a sense of depth and form.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · burnt umber · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · ivory black

Mix skin tones by blending burnt umber, yellow ochre, cadmium red, and white. Achieve the blue jacket color by mixing ultramarine blue with burnt umber and a touch of black. The background is a mix of white, red, and a touch of blue.

techniques