plate no. 1068
Untitled
Jean Helion, 1943
study guide
est. 6 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure, hat, and clothing.
- step 02
Divide the face and clothing into distinct planes, simplifying the forms.
- step 03
Mix the background color (a muted blue-gray) and apply it evenly.
- step 04
Mix the skin tones, creating a light and shadow value.
- step 05
Paint the hat using gray tones, defining the brim and crown.
- step 06
Paint the suit and tie, using black, gray, and red.
- step 07
Outline the shapes with thin black lines to define the edges.
- step 08
Add final details and adjust values as needed.
color palette
primary · gray · black · white · blue
secondary · red · flesh tones
Mix grays by combining black and white, and adjust the blue by adding a touch of black or white. Flesh tones can be achieved by mixing white, red, and a touch of yellow or brown.
techniques
- ·flat color application
- ·geometric simplification
- ·value shading
- ·outlining
common pitfalls
- →over-blending colors
- →making the shapes too complex
- →inconsistent line weight
- →uneven color application
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
- ·black fine liner
- ·pencil
optional
- ·medium (for oil paints)
- ·easel
- ·ruler
Use a smooth canvas for easier application of flat colors. Acrylics are faster drying, while oils allow for more blending.
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