plate no. 4985

Alma Dás Pirámides

Xul Solar, 1921

oilExpressionismsymbolic paintingfigurespyramidsskymoondesertskulls

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in layering colors to create depth and atmosphere, as well as simplifying complex forms into basic shapes. It also encourages experimentation with expressive brushwork and symbolic representation.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 8 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to the placement of the figures and pyramids.
step 02
Lay in a base wash of diluted yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the desert landscape and figures.
step 03
Add darker values to the shadows using a mix of burnt umber and ultramarine blue.
step 04
Build up the colors in layers, gradually adding more detail and definition to the figures and pyramids.
step 05
Use dry brush techniques to create texture in the landscape and on the figures.
step 06
Paint the sky with layers of ultramarine blue and white, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 07
Add the moon and the glowing aura around the smaller figure using white and yellow.
step 08
Finish by adding details such as the skulls and the facial features of the figures.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt sienna · ultramarine blue

secondary · titanium white · burnt umber · cadmium yellow

Mix yellow ochre and burnt sienna for the warm tones of the desert and figures. Combine ultramarine blue and burnt umber for the darker shadows. Use white to lighten the colors and create highlights.

techniques