plate no. 4843

1918 in Petrograd

Kuzmá Petrov-Vodkin, 1920

oil, canvasSymbolismgenre paintingfigurebuildingcityscapepeoplemotherchild

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in depicting figures in a cityscape and understanding how to create depth using color and perspective. Students will also learn to mix a limited palette to create a harmonious color scheme.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes: the figures, the building, and the background.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background buildings and the sky.
step 03
Establish the basic values for the mother and child, focusing on the light and shadow patterns.
step 04
Develop the details of the building, including the windows, arches, and architectural elements.
step 05
Refine the figures in the background, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.
step 06
Add details to the mother and child, such as the folds in their clothing and the features of their faces.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · viridian green

Mix ultramarine blue and yellow ochre to create the muted greens. Use burnt umber and cadmium red for the warmer tones in the buildings and skin. Add titanium white to lighten the colors and create highlights.

techniques