plate no. 4731

The Absinthe Drinker

chalk, gouache, watercolorSymbolismportraitfigureportraitbuildingdressadvertisement

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in loose watercolor washes and capturing a likeness with simplified forms. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and atmosphere through color and value.

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 figure and background.
step 02
Apply a thin wash of diluted brown/ochre to the background, allowing it to dry.
step 03
Block in the main areas of color for the figure: blue for the dress, yellow for the apron and bodice, and flesh tones for the face and hands.
step 04
Add darker values to define the shadows and folds in the clothing, using a mix of blue and brown.
step 05
Refine the facial features, paying attention to the eyes and mouth.
step 06
Add details to the background elements, such as the lettering and patterns on the wall.
step 07
Use dry brush techniques to create texture and add highlights.
step 08
Make final adjustments to the values and colors to achieve a cohesive and atmospheric effect.

color palette

primary · Prussian blue · Yellow ochre · Burnt umber

secondary · Titanium white · Cadmium red

Mix Prussian blue with burnt umber to create the darker shades of the dress. Use yellow ochre and titanium white to create the lighter shades of the apron and bodice. Add a touch of cadmium red to the flesh tones for warmth.

techniques

·Watercolor washes
·Dry brush
·Color mixing
·Layering
·Simplified form rendering

common pitfalls

→Overworking the details
→Using too much water
→Muddying the colors
→Incorrect proportions
→Failing to capture the likeness

materials

surface · Watercolor paper 140lb

required

·Watercolor paper 140lb
·Watercolor paints
·Round brushes (sizes 2, 6, 10)
·Palette
·Water container
·Pencil
·Eraser

optional

·Palette knife
·Masking fluid
·Ruler

Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling and ensure good color absorption. Experiment with different brush sizes to achieve various effects.

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