plate no. 4743

The Slag

pastel, paperSymbolismportraitfigureportraithatcoatindoorwall

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, particularly in capturing likeness and subtle facial expressions, as well as understanding how to create depth and form using soft pastel techniques.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Establish the overall color scheme by laying down broad strokes of pastel for the background and clothing.
step 03
Begin to define the facial features, paying close attention to the placement of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 04
Add layers of pastel to build up the form and create subtle variations in color and value.
step 05
Focus on the details of the clothing, such as the folds and creases in the coat.
step 06
Refine the background, adding highlights and shadows to create depth.
step 07
Add the final details, such as the flower and the writing on the wall.
step 08
Blend the pastels to create a soft, atmospheric effect.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · gray · black · white

secondary · rose · light yellow · blue-gray

Mix burnt sienna with white and a touch of black to create the various shades of brown in the background. Combine gray and white for the coat, adding small amounts of blue for cooler tones.

techniques