plate no. 5462
A Red Pedestal
Georges Braque, 1939
experienced study
Recreating this painting will help students understand the principles of cubism, including the fragmentation of objects and the use of multiple perspectives. It also provides practice in simplifying complex forms into geometric shapes and using a limited color palette.
technical profile
palette complexity
3
brushwork visibility
3
value contrast
4
compositional simplicity
2
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin by sketching the basic shapes and composition of the still life, focusing on the overlapping forms.
- step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and then moving to the objects.
- step 03
Define the edges of the shapes with darker or lighter values to create contrast and separation.
- step 04
Add details to the objects, such as the highlights and shadows on the fruit and bottle.
- step 05
Introduce the decorative patterns and textures, paying attention to how they interact with the underlying forms.
- step 06
Refine the composition by adjusting the colors and values as needed.
- step 07
Add final details and highlights to enhance the overall effect.
- step 08
Step back and review the painting, making any necessary adjustments to achieve a cohesive and balanced composition.
color palette
primary · red · green · brown · black
secondary · yellow · white · gray
Mix browns by combining red, yellow, and black. Achieve different shades of green by mixing yellow and blue, and then adjusting with white or black.
techniques
- ·geometric abstraction
- ·color blocking
- ·overlapping shapes
- ·limited palette
- ·simplified forms
common pitfalls
- →Overcomplicating the shapes and forms
- →Using too many colors
- →Failing to create enough contrast
- →Ignoring the overall composition
- →Not simplifying the forms enough
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·oil paints (red, green, brown, black, yellow, white)
- ·palette
- ·assorted brushes
- ·linseed oil
- ·turpentine
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·easel
- ·medium gloss
- ·rags
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider using a limited palette to simplify the color mixing process.
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