Class Project: Create a Stunning Oil Portrait Inspired by Native American History

Join me in the art of portrait painting with this hands-on project! In this class, you’ll paint an oil portrait of San Diago, a mysterious figure from the Plains tribes featured in the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. This project combines professional oil painting techniques, cultural storytelling, and historical context to guide you step-by-step through the creative process.

By the end of the class, you’ll complete a stunning oil painting that reflects both technical skill and the rich narrative of Native American history.

Steps to Complete Your Oil Painting Project

Sketch Your Portrait with Precision
Begin with a strong foundation by creating an accurate sketch of the subject. Choose from:
- A beginner-friendly grid method for proportional accuracy.
- A freehand intermediate approach with the help of square guideline sheet.
- An advanced technique focused on contour drawing for experienced artists.
Build Depth with Underpainting
Use professional underpainting techniques to map out the light, shadow, and structure of your portrait. Focus on values, contrast, and the cultural details of Plains attire as shown in the reference photo.
Add Vibrant Colors
Learn the essentials of color mixing and blending to bring the portrait to life. Use historically inspired tones and textures to enhance realism while honoring Native American traditions.
Refine Details
Finish with delicate highlights and textures.

Final Deliverable

Your final project is a finished photo of your oil painting, uploaded to the Project Gallery. Feel free to include additional uploads like:

A progress shot of your sketch.
A photo of your underpainting.
Why this project is for you:
Learn Oil Painting Techniques: From sketching to color blending, this project covers all the essentials of portrait painting.

Dive Into History: Explore the life of San Diago and the cultural significance of Plains tribes in the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair.

Create a Meaningful Artwork: Combine your technical skills with storytelling to craft a portrait that captures history and emotion.

Materials You’ll Need

Reference photo of San Diago (provided in class resources).
Artistic Gesso and a wide brush for applying it on the canvas
Sketching supplies: pencil, eraser.
Oil paints:
- Titanium White
- Cadmium Orange
- Cadmium Red Light
- Cadmium Yellow
- Raw Umber
- Light Blue
- Ivory Black
Brushes: a variety of sizes for precision and blending.
Canvas or another painting surface.
Acrylic colors for underpainting: black, white, and sienna.

You’ll also receive:

A downloadable linework template for your sketch.

A downloadable map of values to help with your underpainting.

A historical reference sheet on San Diago and Native American culture.

Abra K Vavra

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