plate no. 0420

Woman with a green fan

Alexej von Jawlensky, 1912

oilExpressionismportraitportraitwomanfanheadscarfexpressionismfigure

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand color temperature and how to use bold brushstrokes to define form. It will also teach them how to simplify a complex subject into basic shapes and colors.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the head, shoulders, and fan, paying attention to proportions.
step 02
Block in the main color areas with broad strokes, focusing on the overall color scheme.
step 03
Start layering colors within each area, using short, visible brushstrokes to create texture and depth.
step 04
Mix and apply the various shades of yellow, red, blue, and green to define the facial features and clothing.
step 05
Add details to the headscarf and fan, using contrasting colors to create visual interest.
step 06
Refine the edges of the shapes and add highlights and shadows to enhance the form.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and contrast to match the original painting.
step 08
Add final details and touch-ups as needed.

color palette

primary · yellow · red · blue · purple

secondary · green · orange · black

Achieve the skin tones by mixing yellow with small amounts of red, green, and blue. The purple background is a mix of red and blue with white to lighten.

techniques