plate no. 9715

After All

Charles Demuth, 1933

oilPrecisionismcityscapebuildingsfactorysmokestackscityscapearchitectureindustrial

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand geometric abstraction and how to simplify complex scenes into basic shapes. It will also improve their understanding of color mixing to achieve specific hues and values.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition of the buildings and smokestacks, focusing on accurate proportions and perspective.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color with diluted washes, starting with the sky and lighter tones.
step 03
Gradually build up the darker values in the buildings, using flat, even layers of paint.
step 04
Mix the specific shades of red, brown, and blue needed for the various structures, paying attention to subtle variations in tone.
step 05
Add details such as windows, pipes, and railings with a fine brush, using precise lines and geometric shapes.
step 06
Create subtle gradients on the smokestacks to suggest form and light.
step 07
Refine the edges of the shapes to create a crisp, clean look.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to enhance the sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · red · white · yellow · blue

secondary · brown · gray

Mix various shades of red by combining a primary red with white, brown, or a touch of blue. Create the gray tones by mixing white and black, adjusting with a touch of blue for cooler grays.

techniques

·flat color application
·geometric abstraction
·color mixing
·linear perspective
·hard-edge painting

common pitfalls

→Inaccurate proportions in the initial sketch can throw off the entire painting.
→Uneven application of paint can create unwanted textures.
→Overcomplicating the color palette can lead to muddy or unrealistic colors.
→Failing to create a sense of depth can make the painting appear flat.