plate no. 5476

A Village

Andre Derain, 1912

oil, canvasCubismlandscapevillagebuildingsmountainstreesskylandscape

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand how to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes and practice using a limited color palette to create a cohesive and expressive artwork. Students will also learn how to create depth using color and value.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the mountains, buildings, and trees, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the sky with a light blue-gray tone, using loose brushstrokes.
step 03
Establish the darkest areas of the trees and mountains with a dark green-blue mixture.
step 04
Apply the main orange-red tones to the buildings, varying the shade slightly to create depth.
step 05
Add highlights to the buildings and mountains with lighter shades of orange and gray.
step 06
Refine the shapes of the buildings and trees, adding details with thicker brushstrokes.
step 07
Add the dark cypress tree on the right side.
step 08
Review and adjust the values and colors to create a sense of harmony and balance.

color palette

primary · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue · titanium white · cadmium red

secondary · yellow ochre · viridian green

Mix burnt sienna and ultramarine blue for the dark greens and grays. Vary the orange tones by adding white or yellow ochre to the burnt sienna. Use white and a touch of blue to create the sky.

techniques