plate no. 8012

The girl with green eyes

Henri Matisse, 1908

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurehatclothingstill lifewoman

some experience helpful

This painting provides practice in capturing a likeness with simplified forms and bold color choices. Students will learn to mix skin tones and create a sense of depth through color temperature.

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
Block in the main color areas with thin washes, focusing on the overall composition.
step 03
Start building up layers of color, defining the shapes and forms with bolder brushstrokes.
step 04
Mix and apply skin tones, paying attention to subtle variations in color and value.
step 05
Add details to the face, hat, and clothing, using smaller brushes.
step 06
Refine the background elements, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the form and create visual interest.
step 08
Step back and assess the painting, making any necessary adjustments to the composition, color, or value.

color palette

primary · red · yellow · blue · white

secondary · green · orange · black · purple

Mix skin tones using red, yellow, blue, and white. Achieve greens by mixing blue and yellow, and purples by mixing red and blue. Use white to lighten colors and create highlights.

techniques