Lunia Czechowska, 1917

Modigliani’s portrait of Lunia Czechowska frames her bust-length figure against a flat, muted backdrop, emphasizing the graceful elongation of her neck and the mask-like simplicity of her face. Her pupil-less almond eyes and gently curved mouth contrast with the crisp white collar and softly modeled greenish-yellow blouse, creating a serene yet quietly enigmatic presence. Simplified into 12 values and printed on rolled canvas, just paint directly on top in your choice of oil or acrylic paint. Follow the underpainting closely for a realistic-style result, or loosely for a more painterly style.