plate no. 2473

Woman in Red with Green Background

Lajos Tihanyi, 1929

oilExpressionismportraitportraitfigurewomanred dressdark background

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplified form representation and color temperature variations within a limited palette. It's a good exercise in capturing a likeness with expressive brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and proportions of the figure lightly on the canvas.
step 02
Block in the background with a mix of dark blues and greens, varying the tones slightly.
step 03
Establish the main areas of the red dress, using a base color and then adding highlights and shadows.
step 04
Mix the skin tones using yellows, reds, and whites, and apply them to the face and neck.
step 05
Define the features of the face, paying attention to the shapes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 06
Add details to the hair, using dark browns and blacks, and suggest texture with short brushstrokes.
step 07
Refine the edges and contours of the figure, and add any final details.
step 08
Let dry and add a varnish for protection.

color palette

primary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · titanium white

secondary · burnt umber · viridian green

Mix various shades of red by adding white, yellow, or a touch of blue. The skin tones are achieved by mixing yellow ochre, cadmium red, and white. Darken colors with burnt umber.

techniques