plate no. 5558

Two Figures at Desk

Milton Avery, 1944

oilExpressionismportraitfiguresdesklampinteriorportraitfurniture

suitable for beginners

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex forms into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive and harmonious composition. Students will also learn to capture subtle shifts in value to suggest form and depth.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the figures, desk, and other elements, focusing on proportions and placement.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color using thin washes, starting with the background and largest shapes.
step 03
Gradually build up layers of color, adding more detail and definition to the forms.
step 04
Pay attention to the subtle shifts in value and color within each shape to create a sense of depth and volume.
step 05
Define the edges of the forms with slightly darker or lighter tones.
step 06
Add the details of the lamp, books, and other small objects.
step 07
Refine the overall composition, making adjustments to color and value as needed.
step 08
Add final touches and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · pink · white · brown · black

secondary · red · yellow · grey

Mix various shades of pink by combining white with a touch of red and brown. Achieve the brown tones by blending red, yellow, and black. Create the grey by mixing white and black.

techniques