plate no. 9282
Waking
Torii Kotondo, 1932
some experience helpful
This painting provides a good opportunity to practice rendering smooth skin tones and creating patterns. Students can also learn about composition and how to create a focal point.
technical profile
palette complexity
2
brushwork visibility
1
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
3
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the outline of the figure, paying attention to proportions and pose.
- step 02
Block in the background with a flat layer of green.
- step 03
Apply a base layer of skin tone to the face, neck, and hands.
- step 04
Add shadows and highlights to the face to create depth and dimension.
- step 05
Paint the hair in solid black, adding subtle highlights for form.
- step 06
Carefully paint the kimono pattern, using a small brush for detail.
- step 07
Add the red and blue details on the sleeve.
- step 08
Refine the details and add any final touches.
color palette
primary · ivory · black · blue · green
secondary · red · grey
Mix skin tones by combining white, a touch of red, and a hint of yellow. Vary the skin tone by adding small amounts of grey or blue to create shadows.
techniques
- ·flat washes
- ·blending
- ·pattern rendering
- ·color layering
common pitfalls
- →Incorrect proportions
- →muddy skin tones
- →overly detailed pattern
- →uneven color application
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·watercolor paper
- ·watercolor paints
- ·round brushes (various sizes)
- ·pencil
- ·eraser
- ·palette
- ·water container
optional
- ·masking fluid
- ·ruler
- ·color pencils
Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling. A kneaded eraser is helpful for lifting graphite without damaging the paper.
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