plate no. 4347

Woman in a wheelchair

Louis Valtat, 1903

oil, canvasFauvismportraitportraitwomanchairinteriorcatflowers

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors and creating texture with visible brushstrokes. Students will also learn to capture the likeness of a subject using simplified forms and expressive color.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the woman, chair, and surrounding elements.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with thin washes of paint, focusing on the overall color harmony.
step 03
Begin layering thicker paint strokes to build up texture and define forms.
step 04
Pay attention to the direction of brushstrokes to create a sense of movement and volume.
step 05
Mix and apply subtle color variations to add depth and interest to the painting.
step 06
Refine the details of the face, hair, and clothing, using small, precise brushstrokes.
step 07
Add highlights and shadows to enhance the three-dimensionality of the subject.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall composition, making any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · raw umber · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · viridian · ultramarine blue

Mix yellow ochre and raw umber with white to create the various skin tones and background colors. Use small amounts of cadmium red to add warmth to the skin and lips. Mix viridian and ultramarine blue to create the darker tones in the clothing and shadows.

techniques