plate no. 7942

Theroigne de Mericourt

Felix Labisse, 1971

oilSurrealismnude painting (nu)figureportraitchainswindowheadscarfnude

some experience helpful

This painting provides a good opportunity to practice color blocking and creating smooth transitions between colors. Students can also learn about simplifying complex forms into basic shapes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure, headscarf, and background elements.
step 02
Block in the main areas of color: orange for the skin, brown for the background, blue for the cloth, and black for the chains.
step 03
Refine the shapes and edges of the figure, paying attention to the contours of the face and body.
step 04
Add details to the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 05
Create smooth transitions between colors using blending techniques.
step 06
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
step 07
Paint the details of the chains and the window.
step 08
Make final adjustments and refinements to the painting.

color palette

primary · orange · brown · black · blue

secondary · white · grey

The orange skin tone can be achieved by mixing red and yellow. Varying the proportions will create subtle differences in skin tone. The brown background can be created by mixing burnt umber and a touch of black.

techniques