plate no. 9889

Alleyway

Istvan Ilosvai Varga, 1935

oilCubismcityscapebuildingsstreetfiguresalleywaycityscapesky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in simplifying complex scenes into basic shapes and using a limited color palette to create a cohesive composition. It also provides practice in capturing the essence of a scene with expressive brushstrokes.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes of the buildings, street, and figures, focusing on their relative sizes and positions.
step 02
Block in the main color areas using thinned paint, starting with the sky and then the larger areas of the buildings and street.
step 03
Gradually build up the colors and values, adding more detail and definition to the shapes.
step 04
Use thicker paint and bolder brushstrokes to create texture and visual interest, especially in the foreground.
step 05
Pay attention to the light and shadow, and use them to create depth and form.
step 06
Add the figures, simplifying their forms and focusing on their overall shape and gesture.
step 07
Refine the details and edges, and make any necessary adjustments to the composition.
step 08
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the sense of depth and realism.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · ultramarine blue

secondary · titanium white · cadmium red

Mix yellow ochre and burnt umber for the warm tones of the buildings. Use ultramarine blue and white for the sky. Add small amounts of cadmium red to warm up the browns and yellows.

techniques