plate no. 5871

Augustus Bridge - Dresden

Oskar Kokoschka, 1923

oilExpressionismcityscapecityscapebridgeriverbuildingsskyboats

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in expressive brushwork and capturing atmospheric perspective through color and value variations. It also encourages simplification of complex scenes into basic shapes and forms.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 10 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic shapes and composition, focusing on the placement of the bridge, buildings, and river.
step 02
Block in the sky with broad strokes, establishing the color variations from dark blues and grays to oranges and yellows.
step 03
Establish the main colors of the water, using blues, greens, and grays, and reflecting the colors of the sky.
step 04
Paint the buildings and bridge, simplifying the details and focusing on the overall shapes and colors.
step 05
Add details to the boats and figures in the foreground, using thicker paint and bolder strokes.
step 06
Refine the colors and values throughout the painting, adjusting the contrasts and harmonies.
step 07
Add final touches and highlights to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
step 08
Step back and assess the overall balance and harmony of the painting.

color palette

primary · Prussian Blue · Burnt Sienna · Yellow Ochre · Titanium White

secondary · Sap Green · Cadmium Orange · Payne's Gray

Mix various shades of gray by combining white, black, and a touch of blue or brown. Achieve the orange hues by mixing red and yellow, and the green by mixing blue and yellow. Use white to lighten colors and increase their opacity.

techniques