
plate no. 5704
Sallinen Tyko, 1914
This painting provides a good opportunity to practice expressive brushstrokes and capturing likeness with simplified forms. Students can learn to mix skin tones and create depth using value changes.
technical profile
approach — 8 steps
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figure, focusing on proportions and placement on the canvas.
Block in the background with broad strokes of blue, varying the shades slightly.
Establish the dark areas of the dress and hair with a mix of dark blue, black, and purple.
Mix skin tones using white, red, yellow, and a touch of blue, and apply to the face and neck, paying attention to highlights and shadows.
Define the collar with white, adding subtle shadows to give it form.
Add details to the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth, using small, deliberate brushstrokes.
Refine the edges and add final touches to the hair and clothing.
Step back and assess the overall balance and make any necessary adjustments.
color palette
primary · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red
secondary · ivory black · yellow ochre · dioxazine purple
Mix skin tones by combining white, red, yellow, and a touch of blue. Achieve darker blues by adding black or purple to ultramarine blue.
techniques
common pitfalls
surface · stretched canvas
required
optional
Use a medium-sized canvas to allow for expressive brushstrokes. Consider using a limited palette to simplify color mixing.
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