plate no. 7750

The Family

Paula Rego, 1988

oilExpressionismgenre paintingfiguresinteriorbedroompuppetbedwindow

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in figure drawing, understanding of light and shadow in an interior setting, and creating a narrative composition.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Create a rough sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and key objects.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color, using thin washes to establish the basic tones.
step 03
Develop the figures, paying attention to proportions and anatomical details.
step 04
Add details to the background elements, such as the bed, furniture, and window.
step 05
Refine the lighting and shadows, creating depth and dimension.
step 06
Work on the details of the clothing and accessories, such as the skirt pattern and the puppet.
step 07
Add final touches and highlights to enhance the overall effect.
step 08
Review and adjust the painting as needed to achieve a cohesive and expressive result.

color palette

primary · gray · brown · red · white

secondary · pink · green · black

Mix various shades of gray and brown by combining primary colors. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights. Achieve the pink hues by mixing red and white.

techniques