plate no. 1779
Young Woman in Kimono, Reading
Emile Bernard, 1887
some experience helpful
This painting offers a good exercise in simplifying forms and capturing the essence of a subject with loose brushwork. Students can learn to mix muted colors and create depth through subtle value changes.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
4
value contrast
3
compositional simplicity
4
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes: the figure, the vase, and the table.
- step 02
Block in the main color areas for the background, kimono, and table using thin washes.
- step 03
Add the darker values to define the shadows and contours of the figure and vase.
- step 04
Mix and apply the colors for the floral pattern on the kimono.
- step 05
Develop the details of the vase and flowers, paying attention to the highlights and shadows.
- step 06
Refine the background with subtle color variations.
- step 07
Add final touches and highlights to the figure and still life.
- step 08
Review and adjust the overall composition and color balance.
color palette
primary · green · yellow ochre · ultramarine blue
secondary · burnt sienna · purple · white
Mix greens by combining blues and yellows. Mute colors by adding small amounts of complementary colors (e.g., a touch of red to green).
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·dry brushing
- ·color mixing
- ·simplifying forms
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking details
- →Using colors that are too bright
- →Losing the overall composition
- →Not simplifying the forms enough
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·acrylic or oil paints
- ·round brushes
- ·flat brushes
- ·palette
- ·palette knife
optional
- ·painting medium
- ·easel
- ·rags
- ·turpentine or odorless mineral spirits (for oil paints)
Use a medium-textured canvas to enhance the brushwork. Acrylics are a good option for beginners due to their fast drying time.
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