Portrait Painting from a Limited Palette

In this oil painting class, you will have the opportunity to learn and explore the technique of portrait painting using a limited color palette. This palette consists of just four colors: yellow ochre, ivory black, cadmium red, and titanium white. Students will create a color chart to become familiar with the wide array of colors that can be mixed using only these four pigments. 

We will guide you through the process of creating portraits using this restricted color range. You will learn how to mix and manipulate these colors to achieve a wide range of values and hues, allowing you to capture the subtle nuances of skin tones and facial features.

This course is great for beginners and experienced painters alike. Beginners will learn how to mix and manipulate colors without being overwhelmed by an extensive palette. Experienced painters will learn how to gain more control over color mixing and mix familiar colors in new ways. With a limited palette, color harmony is automatic. 

Robin will provide demonstrations and step-by-step instructions on how to use the limited palette effectively. You will also learn about the principles of light and shadow, as well as techniques for creating form using just four colors.

Throughout the class, you will have the opportunity to practice your skills by working from both live models and reference photographs. Each week, Robin will provide demos, and students will work on their portraits with individual critiques and guidance.