plate no. 5201
Study of a Head
Elizabeth Coffin, 1893
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the head, shoulders, and scarf.
- step 02
Block in the background with a thin wash of muted green.
- step 03
Establish the main shadow shapes on the face and clothing using a mid-tone mixture.
- step 04
Begin layering lighter tones on the face, focusing on capturing the subtle shifts in value.
- step 05
Refine the features of the face, paying attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- step 06
Add details to the hair, suggesting texture and form with short, broken brushstrokes.
- step 07
Paint the scarf, using a combination of soft and crisp edges to create a sense of depth.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the values and colors to create a cohesive and realistic portrait.
color palette
primary · ivory black · raw umber · titanium white · cadmium red light
secondary · yellow ochre · viridian
Skin tones are achieved by mixing white, red, and umber, with small amounts of yellow ochre for warmth. The background is a mix of viridian, raw umber, and white.
techniques
- ·portrait drawing
- ·value studies
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
- ·soft edges
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early.
- →Using too much paint and losing the subtle value changes.
- →Failing to capture the likeness of the subject.
- →Creating harsh edges that detract from the softness of the portrait.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas 12x16
- ·oil paints
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·palette
- ·linseed oil
- ·odorless mineral spirits
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·medium (e.g., Liquin)
- ·varnish
Use a limited palette to simplify color mixing and create a harmonious painting.
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