plate no. 5462
A Red Pedestal
Georges Braque, 1939
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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