plate no. 9463

Trois Couleurs Blanc

Victo Ngai, 2016

mixed mediaSurrealismillustrationfigureportraitarchitecturetrainsuitcasesnow

experienced study

This painting helps develop skills in linear perspective, creating depth through layering, and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive mood. Students will also learn to represent textures and patterns with fine lines.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch of the overall composition, focusing on the placement of the main figures and the architectural elements.
step 02
Establish the basic shapes of the fragmented face and hands, paying attention to proportions.
step 03
Add the figures in the foreground and background, outlining their forms and the suitcase.
step 04
Start layering the light blue background, using hatching and cross-hatching to create texture and depth.
step 05
Introduce the coral/peach color to the fragmented face and hands, using fine lines to define the shapes and create a sense of volume.
step 06
Add the darker blue to the figures' clothing, using varying line weights to create shadows and highlights.
step 07
Incorporate the architectural details, such as the train seats and windows, using precise lines and perspective.
step 08
Refine the details and add the snow effect with small dots or specks of white.

color palette

primary · light blue · coral/peach · dark blue

secondary · orange (suitcase) · white

Achieve the light blue by mixing a small amount of blue with white. The coral/peach can be created by mixing red, yellow, and white. The dark blue can be achieved by mixing blue with a touch of black.

techniques

·hatching
·cross-hatching
·linear perspective
·layering
·fine line drawing

common pitfalls

→Inaccurate proportions of the figures and fragmented face.
→Overcomplicating the linework and losing the overall clarity.
→Failing to create a sense of depth and perspective.
→Using colors that are too saturated and not in harmony with the limited palette.