plate no. 0429

Thomas in His Red Coat

Robert Henri, 1913

oilAmerican Realismportraitportraitfigurechildred coattreesfoliage

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, color mixing, and capturing light and shadow with expressive brushstrokes. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms and creating a sense of depth.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure and background.
step 02
Establish the main areas of light and shadow with broad strokes of color.
step 03
Begin to refine the facial features, paying attention to the placement of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 04
Develop the folds and drapery of the red coat, using variations in value and color to create form.
step 05
Add details to the background, suggesting the foliage and trees with loose, expressive brushstrokes.
step 06
Refine the highlights and shadows on the face and clothing to create a sense of depth and volume.
step 07
Add final details and adjust the overall composition as needed.
step 08
Allow to dry and apply a varnish to protect the painting.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · viridian green · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · ultramarine blue · burnt umber

Mix various shades of red by adding white, umber, or a touch of blue. Create greens by mixing viridian with yellow ochre and white. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create dark shadows.

techniques