plate no. 6329
The Commode
Kees van Dongen, 1910
some experience helpful
Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in color blocking and simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also provides practice in creating a sense of depth and space through color and value.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 10 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to proportions and placement of objects.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color: yellow for the walls and door, blue for the commode, and the background of the portrait.
- step 03
Add the secondary colors and details, such as the red trim on the commode and the colors of the vases.
- step 04
Begin to refine the shapes and add details to the portrait, focusing on capturing the essence of the figure.
- step 05
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 06
Refine the details and edges of the objects, paying attention to the overall harmony of the painting.
- step 07
Add final touches and adjustments as needed.
- step 08
Let dry and varnish if desired.
color palette
primary · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue · cadmium yellow
secondary · alizarin crimson · titanium white · burnt umber
Mix various shades of yellow by adding white or a touch of burnt umber. Create the blue of the commode by mixing ultramarine blue with a touch of alizarin crimson and white. Achieve the skin tones in the portrait by mixing white, yellow ochre, and a small amount of alizarin crimson.
techniques
- ·color blocking
- ·simplified shapes
- ·layering
- ·blending
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details and losing the simplicity of the original painting.
- →Not paying attention to the proportions and placement of objects.
- →Using colors that are too bright or saturated.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth and space.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·Stretched canvas (16x20 inches)
- ·Acrylic or oil paints
- ·Palette
- ·Assorted brushes (flat and round)
- ·Palette knife
- ·Linseed oil (if using oil paints)
- ·Odorless mineral spirits (for cleaning brushes)
- ·Rags
optional
- ·Medium gloss
- ·Easel
- ·Apron
Use a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process. Consider using a medium to thin the paints and improve blending.
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